The Los Angeles Rams have made a significant move by firing special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn following a disappointing loss to the Seattle Seahawks. This decision, announced by head coach Sean McVay over the weekend, marks the first in-season coaching change during McVay’s nine-year tenure with the franchise. The Rams, currently holding an 11-4 record, have struggled in their special teams unit, with Blackburn’s leadership coming under scrutiny after allowing a critical punt return for a touchdown.
In a press conference held on Zoom, McVay emphasized that the decision was rooted in his confidence in the team and his belief in their potential for improvement as they approach the playoffs. “What it really boiled down to was the confidence that I have in this football team and where I think we can head,” McVay stated. “Through these 15 games, we learned a lot, and man, I have so much confidence in this group.”
McVay acknowledged that he made the decision to part ways with Blackburn shortly after the Thursday night game, informing him on Friday morning that his three-year tenure had come to an end. The head coach took responsibility for the special teams’ performance but believed that a change in leadership was necessary. “It was just what we thought was best for the collective, and that’s sometimes the hard decisions that I’m tasked with,” he explained.
The timing of the change, just two weeks before the playoffs, suggests that McVay is looking to implement adjustments that will allow the special teams unit to regroup and improve. McVay appointed special teams assistant Ben Kotwica to take charge of the unit, providing him with ample time to prepare for his new role. In addition, former Eagles and 49ers assistant Matt Harper will assist Kotwica as they work together to enhance the team’s performance.
“I know his capacity, I know his accountability, I know the core beliefs that he has,” McVay said regarding Kotwica. He expressed his commitment to retaining key foundational elements while introducing necessary changes that reflect the team’s evolving style of play.
Injury Updates Ahead of Falcons Matchup
As the Rams prepare for their upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons, McVay provided updates on several players’ injuries. Right guard Kevin Dotson is facing challenges with an ankle injury and may struggle to participate in Monday’s game, although McVay did not rule him out entirely.
Meanwhile, wide receiver Davante Adams is making progress in recovering from a hamstring issue that sidelined him during the loss to Seattle. “Davante is making really good progress with his hamstring, and we’ll see what that looks like as the week progresses,” McVay noted.
Tight end Tyler Higbee and right tackle Rob Havenstein remain on injured reserve, requiring additional time to heal before they can be activated to return to the field. McVay confirmed that neither player would be available for the game against Atlanta.
The Rams are looking to bounce back from their recent defeat and solidify their position as they head into the final weeks of the regular season. With a renewed focus on special teams and strategic adjustments, McVay is hopeful that the team can regain momentum.
