Rams Initiate Kicker Competition After Signing Harrison Mevis
Following two missed field goals in their recent win against the New Orleans Saints, the Rams are set to implement at least one significant change in their special teams unit, possibly two.
On Tuesday, Los Angeles Rams (6-2) signed veteran long snapper Jake McQuaide to their practice squad. The following day, they added kicker Harrison Mevis to the practice squad as well.
Competition and Changes in Special Teams
Head coach Sean McVay announced that Mevis will compete with current kicker Joshua Karty for the starting position this week. Additionally, McQuaide is expected to replace Alex Ward as the team's long snapper for the upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers (6-3), pending successful practice performances.
“Certainly, there’s a lot of layers to everything that’s gone on in that phase,” McVay said. “But those are two areas that those guys have done a lot of really good stuff for us but we want to be able to see a little bit more consistency in those areas. I think these guys will be here to be able to push them and then that allows us to be able to make a decision.”
Background on Jake McQuaide
McQuaide previously spent 10 seasons with the Rams from 2011 to 2020 and earned Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017. Afterward, he played with the Minnesota Vikings and Miami Dolphins during the 2024 season.
These roster moves indicate the Rams’ focus on improving consistency in their kicking game and long snapping as they approach important upcoming matchups.
Author's Summary
The Rams are bolstering their special teams unit by signing Jake McQuaide and Harrison Mevis to spark competition and improve consistency in kicking and long snapping going forward.