Rams face issues with special teams after loss to Cardinals

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 5:30 AM

Last updated Oct 19, 2026

Rams face issues with special teams after loss to Cardinals
Summary

The Los Angeles Rams are grappling with significant special teams issues following an 18-16 defeat against the Arizona Cardinals, dropping their record to 2-4. Key player Blake Grupe suffered a knee injury during the game, removing him from consideration as the team's kicker and raising the prospect of needing a third replacement. Special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone's position remains secure for the moment, but there are growing concerns regarding the entire unit's performance, as emphasized by Rams insider Nate Atkins. The team's offensive struggles also persisted, with quarterback Matthew Stafford facing pressure due to the absence of left tackle Alaric Jackson. The Rams have little time to rectify these problems as they aim to remain competitive moving forward.

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Status Watch
  • •Rams lose 18-16 to the Cardinals, dropping to 2-4 in the season.
  • •Kicker Blake Grupe sustained a knee injury during the match.
  • •Rams have released kicker Harrison Mevis after his missed kick against Buffalo.
  • •Offensive struggles continued without starting left tackle Alaric Jackson.
  • •Special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone's job appears safe for now.
Latest Updates
  • 5:30 AMYahoo Sports — Rams insider reveals growing concern as special teams crisis deepens after Cardinals loss
What they're saying
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The Los Angeles Rams are facing growing concerns over their special teams after an 18-16 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals left Sean McVay’s side with a 2-4 record. Los Angeles lost kicker Blake Grupe to a knee injury during the game, raising the possibility that the team could need another replacement after releasing Harrison Mevis following his missed kick against the Buffalo Bills.

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