Rams Part Ways with Special Teams Coordinator Chase Blackburn After Seahawks Game

Rams Fire Special Teams Coordinator Following Seahawks Defeat

In a decisive move following a disappointing loss against the Seattle Seahawks, the Los Angeles Rams have parted ways with special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn. This change comes after three seasons in which Blackburn struggled to address recurrent issues within the special teams unit.

The firing was confirmed by a team official on Saturday, shortly after the Rams fell 38-37 in overtime to the Seahawks, a game marred by critical special teams breakdowns. Rams head coach Sean McVay acknowledged his team’s issues, particularly in the wake of the loss, which has left the Rams at 11-4 and out of contention for the No. 1 seed in the NFC.

Blackburn’s tenure was characterized by a series of troubling special teams performances, particularly evident in last Thursday’s game. The Rams led by 16 points in the fourth quarter but allowed Seahawks player Rashid Shaheed to execute a 58-yard punt return for a touchdown, igniting a comeback that ultimately cost the Rams the game.

Earlier this month, Blackburn remarked on the responsibilities of a special teams coach, stating, “The job of a special teams coach is to be able to adapt and overcome on all things.” However, adaptation proved difficult for the Rams, who have boasted a powerful offense and a formidable defense.

The Rams’ special teams have faced multiple challenges this season. In September, two field-goal attempts by kicker Joshua Karty were blocked during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles, with the second being returned for a winning touchdown on the final play. Just weeks later, in a tight overtime match against the San Francisco 49ers, Karty missed a long field-goal attempt and had an extra-point attempt blocked. His kickoff during overtime did not reach the end zone, granting the 49ers advantageous field position.

Following these events, the Rams reassessed their kicking strategy, signing kicker Harrison Mevis to replace Karty and veteran snapper Jake McQuaide to enhance their special teams. Mevis has since solidified his role, converting all eight of his field-goal attempts—though he did miss a crucial 48-yarder against the Seahawks.

Looking ahead, the Rams have secured a playoff spot and will face the Atlanta Falcons on November 29 in Atlanta. They will conclude the regular season with a home game against the Arizona Cardinals.