Sean McVay Fires Rams STC Chase Blackburn in Critical Season Shakeup

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay fired Special Teams Coordinator Chase Blackburn on Saturday. The move comes late in the season as the Rams prepare for a playoff push. Ben Kotwica, the assistant special teams coach, will take over the unit immediately.

This decision follows a season of persistent struggles on kick and punt coverage. According to analysis from NFL Network, the Rams’ special teams have been a recurring weakness, culminating in a costly punt return touchdown recently.

Timing and Immediate Fallout of the Coaching Change

The timing of the dismissal is a key point of discussion. Making a change with only a few games left in the regular season is unusual. It suggests a sense of urgency from McVay to fix a glaring problem before the postseason.

The immediate impact will be tested on the field this weekend. Ben Kotwica now faces the task of improving coverage units with little time for installation. His primary challenge is leveraging the powerful leg of punter Ethan Evans by getting coverage players downfield faster.

Long-Term Implications for the Rams’ Coaching Staff

This move signals a potential broader overhaul of the coaching staff next offseason. Chris Shula and Mike LaFleur, the defensive and offensive coordinators, are considered strong head coaching candidates. If they depart, McVay could be managing multiple new coordinators in 2026.

For the players, consistency is now the goal. The special teams unit must adapt quickly to Kotwica’s methods. The success or failure of this late change could significantly influence the Rams’ performance in a tight playoff race.

This late-season firing of Chase Blackburn underscores the high-stakes pressure in the NFL. The Rams’ special teams overhaul must yield immediate results to support their Super Bowl aspirations.

Info at your fingertips

Why was Chase Blackburn fired?

He was fired due to persistent performance issues with the Rams’ special teams units. The final straw was likely a recent punt return touchdown allowed, highlighting ongoing coverage problems.

Who is replacing Chase Blackburn?

Assistant Special Teams Coach Ben Kotwica was promoted to fill the role immediately. Kotwica is a veteran coach with previous coordinator experience in the NFL.

What were the main special teams problems?

Coverage on punts and kicks was the primary issue. The unit struggled to get downfield quickly enough, leading to big returns against them and a recent touchdown.

Will this affect the Rams’ playoff chances?

It could. Solid special teams play is critical in close playoff games. Fixing these issues could be the difference between an early exit and a deep postseason run.

Will other Rams coaches be replaced soon?

It is possible. Both coordinators are in demand for head coaching jobs. This special teams change may be the first of several coaching adjustments this offseason.