Sean McVay Explains the Reason Behind Rams’ Signing of Kicker Brett Maher and the Release of Lucas Havrisik.
Sean McVay Clarifies Decision to Add Kicker Brett Maher and Release Lucas Havrisik for the Rams.
The Los Angeles Rams, who have rebounded from their 3-6 start to win six of their last seven games, are addressing a familiar issue from their early-season struggles. On Monday, the team announced the waiver of kicker Lucas Havrisik, who faced challenges in the 26-25 victory over the New York Giants, missing two extra points and making only four of nine field goals from 40-plus yards in nine games.
In response, the Rams have re-signed kicker Brett Maher, who was waived by Los Angeles after Week 7.
Head coach Sean McVay explained that securing a playoff berth played a crucial role in the decision, prompting the team to bring in Maher for his experience.
McVay highlighted consistency as a significant factor in the change, pointing out that Havrisik had struggled to maintain reliability in six of his nine appearances, missing attempts, whether field goals or extra points. Despite initially expressing no plans to replace Havrisik heading into Week 17, McVay emphasized the team’s commitment to making decisions in the best interest of the group.
Havrisik’s stats included an 11-of-11 record on field goals from 39 yards and within, and 19 of 22 on extra points. However, his overall field goal percentage was 75 percent. Maher, in his previous seven games this season, demonstrated success within 39 yards and displayed consistency in shorter-range kicks.
McVay acknowledged Maher’s experience, his familiarity with the team’s needs, and the limited options in the free-agent market as factors in the decision. He expressed confidence in Maher’s ability to contribute to the team’s consistency on shorter attempts.
Regarding Havrisik, McVay remains optimistic about his potential future in the league, citing examples of kickers overcoming early struggles to have successful careers. Maher, now back with the Rams, will aim to contribute to the team’s improved performance as they face the San Francisco 49ers in their upcoming game.