The Los Angeles Rams are taking decisive action to address their kicking issues, signing kicker Harrison Mevis to their practice squad. This strategic move aims to bolster competition within the kicking unit, where Mevis will vie for the position against second-year kicker Joshua Karty. The decision follows the team’s signing of veteran long-snapper Jake McQuaide, who previously played for the Rams from 2011 to 2020, enhancing the overall consistency of the team’s field-goal operation.
Head coach Sean McVay expressed the need for improved reliability in the kicking game, particularly after watching his team struggle in prior games against the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers. Despite their strong 6-2 record, both losses highlighted issues with the kicking unit. In a recent game against the New Orleans Saints, Karty faced challenges, missing a 39-yard field goal and an extra-point attempt. His overall performance includes 10 successful field goals out of 15 attempts and 23 out of 26 extra points.
Ahead of their matchup against the 49ers at Levi’s Stadium, the Rams are looking to sharpen their special teams. McVay plans to intensify competition during practice as Karty and Mevis engage in more comprehensive drills to push each other toward improvement. Karty acknowledged the collective struggles of the unit, taking personal responsibility for his performance. He expressed optimism about his technique and is eager to progress day by day.
Mevis, who previously excelled at the University of Missouri with an impressive rate of 89 successful field goals out of 106 attempts, including a long of 61 yards, is enthusiastic about seizing this opportunity to assist the team. He has also performed notably well in the United Football League, converting 20 out of 21 field-goal attempts.
McQuaide, returning to the Rams after several years, is keen to integrate himself and contribute to the team’s success. He maintains that the experience of competition can elevate everyone’s performance, a sentiment echoed by incumbent long-snapper Alex Ward, who is confident in his abilities and motivated by the added competition.
As the Rams prepare for their next challenge, the presence of new and seasoned players promises to enhance their kicking game, which is essential for maintaining their momentum this season.