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The injury occurred immediately after Grupe successfully converted a 44-yard field goal. While attempting to make a tackle on the ensuing kickoff, the kicker went down and required assistance from the Rams' medical staff to exit the field. Although he was initially listed as doubtful to return, the team officially downgraded his status to out during the fourth quarter.
Impact on Rams special teams and roster
Grupe’s departure left the Rams without their primary placekicker for the rest of the game. The team did not attempt another field goal following the injury, and punter Ethan Evans was observed practicing placekicking on the sideline as a contingency measure. The Rams also struggled with their alternative scoring options, failing to convert a two-point conversion attempt following a second-quarter touchdown. According to league research, the Rams remain the only team in the NFL without a successful two-point conversion since the start of last season, holding an 0-2 record in such attempts.
The Rams had signed Grupe from the New York Jets' practice squad only last week. His arrival followed the release of Harrison Mevis, who had struggled in a 37-34 loss to the Buffalo Bills. During that Monday night game, Mevis missed a 50-yard field goal attempt and had a potential game-winning 48-yard kick blocked in overtime. The Rams now face further uncertainty regarding their kicking situation as they evaluate the severity of Grupe's injury following his abbreviated debut.
