The Los Angeles Rams deployed three different players for kicking duties during their Week 7 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, marking the first time in recent memory the team has used separate players for field goals and kickoffs while keeping both on the roster.
In the 24-9 victory at SoFi Stadium, Brandon McManus handled all field goal attempts, converting one field goal and three extra points. Joshua Karty, activated solely for kickoffs, executed five kickoffs but was penalized twice for kicks landing short of the landing zone, giving the Chargers prime field position. Ethan Evans continued handling punts as he has all season.
The strategy was part of an effort to address persistent special teams issues that have plagued the Rams in recent years. Head coach Sean McVay defended the approach after the game, stating the decision was driven by struggles in kick coverage. "We had not been having any success covering kicks," McVay said. "You did see when we were able to cover it, because he hits a really good ball that’s hard to field... They’re not going to be able to field it clean and we’re getting a start before they’re getting their return set up."
The Rams' special teams have been a recurring weakness, contributing to playoff losses in recent seasons. Last year, a punt return touchdown by the Seattle Seahawks sparked a playoff exit, while poor field position in a snow game against the Philadelphia Eagles was cited as a factor in another close loss. The team’s special teams coordinator, Joe Bowden, has emphasized the need for improvement in this phase of the game.
Karty acknowledged his struggles with the "dirty" kickoffs, a technique designed to limit return opportunities. "Probably the worst kickoff day I’ve had since last year," he said. "I think I was trying to do too much." McManus, meanwhile, has made all four of his attempts since taking over field goal duties, providing stability in that area.
The Rams' experiment reflects the high stakes of special teams performance for a team with championship expectations. With roster spots at a premium, carrying two kickers is unusual and underscores the urgency of addressing the unit’s deficiencies. The team’s next steps remain uncertain as they evaluate whether to continue the split-kicker approach or revert to a more traditional setup.