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Rams Fire Special Teams Coordinator After Costly Loss

12/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Rams fired Chase Blackburn, the team's special teams coordinator, after a loss to the Seattle Seahawks in which a punt return touchdown shifted momentum.
The Rams' kickoff strategy has been problematic, as they lead the NFL in touchbacks with opponents starting at the 35-yard line.
Since Ethan Evans took over, 83.7% of his kickoffs have resulted in touchbacks.
Josh Karty previously served as the Rams' kicker and used a strategy to limit return opportunities.
Head coach Sean McVay's decision to fire Blackburn may have been influenced by the kickoff performance, which has given opponents a significant field position advantage.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Rams fired Chase Blackburn, the team's special teams coordinator, after a loss to the Seattle Seahawks in which a punt return touchdown shifted momentum.
The Rams' kickoff strategy has been problematic, as they lead the NFL in touchbacks with opponents starting at the 35-yard line.
Since Ethan Evans took over, 83.7% of his kickoffs have resulted in touchbacks.
Josh Karty previously served as the Rams' kicker and used a strategy to limit return opportunities.
Head coach Sean McVay's decision to fire Blackburn may have been influenced by the kickoff performance, which has given opponents a significant field position advantage.