Rams kick this former starter to the curb before facing the Panthers

The Los Angeles Rams have seen enough. After carrying two kickers on various rosters for nearly one month, the team is finally willing to commit to one. And it's no surprise that former UFL kicker Harrison Mevis is the winner for the starting job. He did not miss a single attempt in three games, including two field goals of 40+ yards.

Kicker Joshua Karty had to know that his time was limited. We certainly did. And so, the news that the Rams have kicked the former place kicker to the curb was only surprising in the length of time required to do so. It is nothing against Karty, who may even be re-signed to the practice squad. It's simply the harsh reality of the NFL.

Do your job. Meet expectations. Unfortunately, Karty struggled all season to do so. And Los Angeles afforded him a month-long grace period to turn things around. Now, as the team finalizes preparations to face the 6-6 Carolina Panthers, the former Stanford Cardinal must recast his football future.

LA Rams future now belongs to the 'Thiccer Kicker'

While the decision holds a double-edged sword, benefitting Harrison Mevis while disappointing Joshua Karty, it's the right move going forward. In a meritocracy, Mevis was the clear better performer. And in the NFL, competition is king.

Don't expect everything to be fixed on special teams just yet. But in terms of losing games as a direct result of poor field goal performance, this is step one in getting things fixed. And Karty could be back on the practice squad. He will need to clear waivers, which is not outside the scope of reality after his struggles this year.

With the team aiming to secure roster slots for both cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon and wide receiver Tutu Atwell, Karty's release was inevitable. But with today's news, LA has pushed all of its chips into the UFL star kicker. So far, he has not let Los Angeles down.

And so, it's an ever-evolving Rams roster, but one that is gradually growing more effective and proficient. In the end, this was the right move.

As always, thanks for reading.