Les Snead solves 3 worrisome Rams problems with this fresh roster update

The Los Angeles Rams were so dissatisfied with the performance of their special teams group in 2025 that the team completely overhauled the coaching staff and players ultimately responsible. Of the players that began the 2025 NFL season on the active roster, only punter Ethan Evans remains.

So when the team made another coaching change this offseason, the question became: What will become of placekicker Harrison Mevis?

Well, if you have been sizing up how rookie kickers might fit on the Rams roster under the new coaching duo, you can rest. Los Angeles has tendered three exclusive rights free agents. They are wide receiver and return specialist Xavier Smith, interior offensive lineman Justin Dedich, and veteran kicker Harrison Mevis.

It was the wisest option.

The action has whittled the team's projected free agents from 20 down to 15. Veteran right tackle Rob Havenstein retired. General manager Les Snead quietly extended veteran right tackle David Quessenberry. Now, LA has extended three key contributors from last season. Were there better options? Let's dive in a bit deeper.

Rams continue shrewdly roster moves from bargain basement

The headliner from this update is kicker Harrison Mevis will be back. With the newly hired special teams duo of Bubba Ventrone and Kyle Hoke, Mevis's expected return was not a slam dunk. After all, new coaches often want their own guys.

But The Thiccer Kicker showed his worth in a windy icebox playoff game in Chicago. He was perfect in some of Mother Nature's worst, almost ensuring he would be back. Now it's official, leaving just long snapper Jake McQuaid without an extension.

Even return specialist Xavier Smith will return.

The threesome were the only players on expiring contracts who were ERFAs. While their returns may not trigger overwhelming celebrations among fans, it is nonetheless a shrewd move. Three needs have been addressed before the NFL free agency market or draft arrives, giving Snead much more flexibility to act on or pass up other opportunities as they arise.

Depth along the offensive line, wide receiver, and special teams is always a good thing. That is particularly true of a veteran kicker who stands tall under the pressure of the NFL playoffs. And all three come at tremendous savings, thanks to their ERFA status.

The 2026 NFL free agency market is still days away. But if fans are meant to interpret how adept Les Snead remains at the helm of reconstructing a Super Bowl-worthy roster, he just took a fantastic first step towards that destination.

As always, thanks for reading.