Rams Welcome Bubba Ventrone as the New Special Teams Coordinator
Rams Address Special Teams Issues by Hiring New Coordinator
The Los Angeles Rams are taking decisive action to improve their special teams ahead of the upcoming season by hiring Raymond “Bubba” Ventrone as their new special teams coordinator. A source familiar with the situation confirmed the appointment, requesting anonymity as the official announcement has yet to be made.
Ventrone, a former NFL player, brings extensive experience to the role, having served as the special teams coordinator for the Cleveland Browns over the past three seasons. He has also held coaching positions for the Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots.
Last season, the Rams struggled with their special teams, which contributed to their early-season defeats. The team finished with a 12-5 record and reached the NFC championship game, where they lost to the Seattle Seahawks. Notably, kicking game errors played a significant role in their setbacks, prompting the Rams to make changes mid-season, including the signing of kicker Harrison Mevis and veteran snapper Jake McQuaide.
In December, following a disheartening Week 16 overtime loss to the Seahawks—where a punt return for a touchdown by Seattle’s Rashid Shaheed was critical—head coach Sean McVay dismissed former special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn. Ben Kotwica stepped in as interim coordinator for the remainder of the season.
The Rams’ special teams issues were highlighted during their wild-card victory against the Carolina Panthers, where they had a punt blocked. The NFC championship game also featured a critical moment when returner Xavier Smith muffed a punt that was recovered by the Seahawks, leading to a score just one play later.
As the Rams look to future seasons, Ventrone’s hire represents a strategic shift intended to bolster a critical area of their game.
