Through the first five games of the season, the unit struggled to find its footing, a theme that came into sharp focus on Monday Night Football. In Week 5, Los Angeles had a chance to seize the victory against the Buffalo Bills, but kicker Harrison Mevis had his kick blocked, and Buffalo ultimately won in overtime.
That miss marked the second missed kick of the game for Mevis, and the Rams moved quickly, releasing him the following day. Blake Grupe was brought in from the New York Jets practice squad to take over the role.
Grupe’s debut looked promising early in Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals. He connected on a 44-yard field goal, his first attempt of the day.
However, the kickoff that followed created trouble. Grupe kicked off, and Cardinals returner Devin Duvernay fought through a few tackles to reach Grupe, who attempted to force him out of bounds. Grupe managed to push him out of bounds but sustained a knee injury in the process. An update shortly after the injury indicated Grupe was doubtful to return.
Punter Ethan Evans has been listed as the emergency kicker, but it is unlikely he will be relied upon for the remainder of the game.
For a special teams unit that has been a persistent concern, losing a second kicker in quick succession is a tough setback. McVay faces another tough decision at the position as the Rams prepare for their next game in Week 7.
