The Los Angeles Rams are sitting atop nearly every NFL power ranking heading into Week 12, but one internal issue remains under the microscope. ESPN identified special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn as the person under the most pressure on the league-leading roster despite their 8-2 record.
Blackburn’s unit has faced scrutiny throughout the first half of the season. Early protection problems on field goals and extra points led to costly misses, forcing LA to make changes at both kicker and long snapper. Since those moves, the group has steadied, but any slip in execution could heavily impact Los Angeles’ postseason pursuit. With expectations at an all-time high, special teams remains one of the team’s few inconsistent phases.
Los Angeles Rams, Chase Blackburn, NFL, ESPN
November 9, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
According to team-based rankings from multiple outlets, Los Angeles’ dominance elsewhere shields those shortcomings for now. They claim the top overall spot in the NFL, ahead of teams like the Eagles and Patriots, fueled by a defense that ranks among the best in takeaway rate and points allowed. However, given how many of their wins have come by one possession, Los Angeles can ill afford vulnerable moments in the kicking game down the stretch.
Fan discussions have also reflected the network’s stance. A Turf Show Times poll revealed that nearly 80 percent of Rams fans expect this to be Blackburn’s final year in charge of the special teams unit. That sentiment follows a year where head coach Sean McVay has praised his defense and quarterback Matthew Stafford for carrying close games, leaving little margin for miscues in other departments.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Names Los Angeles Rams’ Chase Blackburn As The Guy Under Most Pressure
Los Angeles Rams, Chase Blackburn, NFL, ESPN
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Rams special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn against the Minnesota Vikings during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
As it stands, Blackburn is facing a lot of pressure for his team this season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Sarah Barshop for ESPN.
Who’s under the most pressure: Special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn
After early-season protection issues on field goals and missed kicks led to a change at kicker and long-snapper before Week 10, it was clear special teams was a weakness for the Rams. Since the switch from Alex Ward to Jake McQuaide at long-snapper and Joshua Karty to Harrison Mevis at kicker, the Rams have not attempted a field goal. Mevis has made all nine of his extra point attempts in two games. If the kicking issues persist or cost the team more games, coach Sean McVay could be looking for a new special teams coordinator after the season.
With Aaron Donald’s retirement and younger talent stepping into leadership roles, McVay’s team has adapted remarkably well. Still, every contender must overcome one glaring flaw to stay on top, and for Los Angeles, that responsibility lies within its special teams rebuild.
Los Angeles Rams, Chase Blackburn, NFL, ESPN
November 9, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
If Blackburn’s unit stabilizes, the Rams could solidify both their championship mettle and their claim as the NFL’s most complete roster. But if the miscues return on kicks or coverage, even the league’s best-ranked team could see its dominance tested in January.
Los Angeles Rams, Chase Blackburn, NFL, ESPN
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Rams special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn against the Minnesota Vikings during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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