LOS ANGELES — Following a tumultuous 2023 season marked by costly errors on special teams, the Los Angeles Rams have undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of their third-phase units in an effort to avoid repeating last year’s failures. The changes come as the Rams prepare for a high-stakes 2024 campaign, aiming to capitalize on the prime years of quarterback Matthew Stafford and newly acquired defensive standouts Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie.
Last season’s special teams breakdowns included two muffed punts in the N.F.C. championship game, a blocked punt in the wild-card playoff round, and frequent issues with blocked field goals and dangerous punt returns. These lapses contributed directly to six losses during the regular season and were a key factor in the team’s postseason setbacks. The dysfunction led head coach Sean McVay to make the unusual decision of dismissing special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn with two games remaining in the regular season. Ben Kotwica stepped in as interim coordinator, achieving some improvements in penalties and kicking consistency, but the unit’s critical errors continued at decisive moments.
In the offseason, the Rams prioritized revamping special teams, bringing in Ray “Bubba” Ventrone as coordinator and Kyle Hoke as his assistant, both from the Cleveland Browns. Ventrone brings a strong background, having served as the Colts’ special teams coordinator from 2018 to 2022 and earned a reputation for developing players into key contributors on defense and offense while maintaining sharp special teams focus. A former standout special teamer himself, Ventrone emphasizes intensity, discipline, and player development, traits welcomed by the Rams’ roster.
“You get it every day from him,” said special teams contributor Shaun Dolac, highlighting Ventrone’s teaching approach and willingness to engage players with detailed answers and guidance.
Recognizing the necessity of veteran leadership, the Rams also addressed personnel gaps by signing long snapper Joe Cardona and coverage specialist Grant Stuard in free agency. Cardona, entering his 12th NFL season, and Stuard, in his sixth, both have prior experience working under Ventrone, which Rams officials see as valuable for team cohesion and culture-building. Stuard, known for his aggressive style, has embraced a leadership role amid the team’s efforts to instill toughness and accountability.
The Rams also retained Xavier Smith despite his high-profile mistakes last season. Smith has responded positively in training camp and preseason action, returning a 40-yard punt against the Kansas City Chiefs and demonstrating growth from his previous struggles. The coaching staff stresses the importance of resilience and how players respond to adversity as critical elements of their philosophy heading into the season.
Practices now routinely start with special teams drills, emphasizing fast-paced work and setting the tone for the entire session. The Rams have increased the involvement of offensive and defensive starters in special teams roles, including players like Konata Mumpfield, Tyler Higbee, Nate Landman, and Kamren Kinchens. This approach aims to raise effort levels and minimize errors by relying on experienced, invested athletes.
With the Rams positioned as Super Bowl contenders and Stafford’s career nearing its twilight, the team acknowledges that special teams will be a decisive factor in outcomes moving forward. While the unit’s recent history presents challenges, the revamped coaching staff, added veteran presence, and heightened focus on fundamentals represent a concerted effort to transform a former liability into a competitive advantage.
“The difference between this year and last year, holistically as an organization, is we’re putting a lot of attention into special teams,” Stuard said. As the regular season approaches, the Rams and their fans will be watching closely to see whether these changes can translate into consistent success on the field.