Rams Cut Mevis, Sign Grupe After Overtime Disaster
The Los Angeles Rams have released kicker Harrison Mevis and signed Blake Grupe from the New York Jets' practice squad. This move follows Mevis's two missed field goals in a 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills, including a blocked attempt that would have won the game. Mevis is currently last in the league with a 55.6% field goal percentage. The Rams are seeking a more reliable kicker to stabilize their special teams unit, which has struggled significantly this season.
Key points
- The Rams released Harrison Mevis on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, following his performance in the Monday Night Football loss to the Buffalo Bills.
- Mevis missed a 50-yard field goal in the first quarter and had a 48-yard attempt blocked in overtime, costing the Rams the game.
- The Rams signed Blake Grupe off the Jets' practice squad to replace Mevis.
- Grupe, age 27, went 11-for-11 on field goals for the Indianapolis Colts in 2025 and has a career long of 60 yards.
- Mevis has a 55.6% field goal percentage this season, which is the lowest in the NFL.
- Head coach Sean McVay indicated he would 'evaluate everything' regarding the kicking operation after the loss.
Background
The Rams have faced persistent special teams struggles in recent years, including changes in kickers and coordinators. In August 2026, the team finalized its 53-man roster and practice squad, setting the stage for the current season's challenges. The recent overtime loss to the Bills, where McVay criticized his own play-calling, highlighted the critical nature of the kicking position for the team's 2-3 start.
How outlets are covering it
Turf Show Times analyzed potential alternatives for the Rams, noting that while international players like Charlie Smyth offer range, Blake Grupe was a viable option due to his recent success with the Colts. NBC Sports and the New York Post confirmed the transaction, citing NFL Network and insider Ian Rapaport, respectively. All sources agree that Mevis's performance, particularly the blocked overtime kick, was the catalyst for the change. The New York Post emphasized Mevis's league-worst field goal percentage, while Turf Show Times highlighted the specific mechanics of the blocked kick and McVay's post-game comments.
Why it matters
The stability of the kicking game is crucial for the Rams' postseason contention. With a 2-3 record, consistent field goal conversion is necessary to close out games. Replacing a struggling kicker with a proven performer like Grupe, who had a perfect 11-for-11 season with the Colts, aims to address a key weakness that has cost the team recent victories.
What to watch
The Rams will monitor Grupe's performance in upcoming games to see if he can provide the consistency needed. The team will also continue to evaluate their special teams unit, as McVay indicated a broader review of the operation. The outcome of this change will be critical in determining whether the Rams can turn their season around and compete for a playoff spot.
- Rams should consider these kickers to upgrade over Harrison Mevis Turf Show Times
- Sources: Rams release kicker Mevis after miscues in loss, sign Grupe from Jets ESPN
- Rams reportedly moving on from kicker Harrison Mevis in latest special teams change Yahoo Sports
- Rams move on from K Harrison Mevis, sign K Blake Grupe NBC Sports
- Rams cut ties with kicker Harrison Mevis after special teams disaster New York Post
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