The Los Angeles Rams are releasing kicker Harrison Mevis and signing Blake Grupe off the New York Jets' practice squad, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo on Tuesday. The move follows Mevis missing a 50-yard field goal attempt in the first quarter and having a 48-yard kick blocked in overtime that would have won Monday night's 37-34 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
After the game, Rams coach Sean McVay said he would "evaluate everything" about the kicking unit. "In the kicking game, especially with our PAT, field goal, not even close to good enough," McVay said. "It cost us the game tonight."
The Rams have had three blocked field goal attempts since the start of last season, tied for the most in the NFL, according to ESPN Research. Los Angeles has also had 81 missed or blocked kicks under McVay since 2017, including playoffs, the third most in the league. Mevis was 5-for-9 on field goal attempts this season.
Grupe started last season with the New Orleans Saints, going 18 of 26 on field goal attempts. After being cut during the season, he signed with the Indianapolis Colts and made all 11 of his attempts. Monday's loss was one of five games that special teams have cost the Rams since the start of last season, including a 58-yard punt return touchdown allowed in Week 16 of 2025 against the Seattle Seahawks that sparked a 16-point comeback. The Rams fired special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn the next day, and hired Bubba Ventrone for the role in January.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing