Sports · American Football · 1 hr ago
Rams' limited investment in special teams faces renewed scrutiny
The Rams lost to the Bills in overtime on Monday, and coach Sean McVay again pointed to special teams after the defeat.
McVay has replaced special teams coordinators, but the team’s personnel decisions are made by the organization, including general manager Les Snead.
An analysis found the Rams near the bottom of the league in five measures of how much teams prioritize special teams.
Seattle devoted more roster resources to special teams, including trading for returner Rashid Shaheed last season.
In a key game against the Rams, Shaheed’s 58-yard punt return sparked Seattle’s comeback from a 16-point fourth-quarter deficit, and the Seahawks won in overtime.
The Rams signed Grant Stuard this offseason for special teams, but he has played only on special teams this season; if the team falls short, it may need to reconsider how it invests in the unit.
The Rams’ limited investment in special teams is facing renewed scrutiny after another overtime loss, this time against the Bills.
ProFootballTalk says the team has consistently devoted fewer roster resources to special teams than other teams.
A special teams mistake helped Seattle beat the Rams in Week 16 of the 2025 regular season and win the NFC West.
Rams coach Sean McVay fired special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn after that loss.
The Rams signed Grant Stuard this offseason to contribute primarily on special teams, but the article says the change was not enough.
- Who
- The Los Angeles Rams, including coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead.
- What
- The team’s limited investment in special teams is facing renewed scrutiny after an overtime loss to the Bills.
- When
- The article was published October 13, 2026; it refers to a loss on Monday night.
- Where
- Not stated.
- Why
- The Rams’ special teams have been criticized after costly performances, while the team has devoted relatively few roster resources to that unit.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Rashid Shaheed returned a punt 58 yards for a touchdown as the Seahawks began a comeback against the Rams.
McVay fired special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn.
The Seahawks traded fourth- and fifth-round picks to the Saints for Shaheed.
The Rams signed Grant Stuard primarily for his special teams contributions.
The Rams lost to the Bills in overtime, prompting renewed scrutiny of their special teams.
- Week 16, 2025
- Seahawks beat the Rams 38-37 in overtime.
- Punt return
- Rashid Shaheed returned a punt 58 yards for a touchdown.
- Trade
- Seahawks sent the Saints a fourth-round pick and a fifth-round pick for Shaheed.
- Rams signing
- Grant Stuard played in all five games exclusively on special teams.
- Article publication
- October 13, 2026
Sources
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