Rams Confirm Harrison Mevis to Start as Kicker Against 49ers
Harrison Mevis is set to debut as the starting kicker for the Los Angeles Rams in the upcoming Week 10 game against the San Francisco 49ers. Head coach Sean McVay made this announcement during a press conference. Mevis replaces Josh Karty, who filled the kicker role for the first eight games of the 2025 season.
Background on Mevis
Mevis, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 245 pounds, was recently signed to the Rams’ practice squad. Prior to joining the Rams, he gained attention for his performance at the University of Missouri, where he played from 2020 to 2023. During his college career, he earned the nickname “Thiccer Kicker.”
Achievements
- Set the record for the longest field goal in SEC history.
- Made a game-winning kick against Kansas State in September 2023.
Before his tenure with the Rams, Mevis signed as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers but was waived before the 2024 NFL season started. He later joined the UFL’s Birmingham Stallions, succeeding with a 20-for-21 field goal record. The New York Jets signed him this offseason, but he was cut from their practice squad in September.
Karty’s Performance
Josh Karty’s tenure as the Rams’ kicker has been challenging. He has managed only 10 successful field goals out of 15 attempts, resulting in a 66.7% success rate. This statistic places him among the lowest-ranked kickers in the NFL who have played multiple games this season.
Impact on Team Performance
Karty’s struggles have contributed to the Rams’ two losses this season. His missed kicks included two field goals in a close Week 3 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, as well as a crucial failed field goal and extra point in a Week 5 loss to the 49ers.
Future Implications
McVay has indicated a willingness to make strategic adjustments to enhance the team’s performance, particularly in the kicking department. Mevis’s performance in the upcoming game could be a determining factor in whether the Rams retain him as the starter or revert to Karty as the season progresses.
The game against the 49ers is scheduled for Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET, and will be a significant opportunity for Mevis to demonstrate his skills on the field.