Sedalia’s Blake Grupe leaves Rams debut with injury

Published 2:24 pm Monday, October 19, 2026

This is a developing story. More details will be added as they become available.

Sedalia native Blake Grupe exited his Los Angeles Rams debut with a knee injury Sunday, Oct. 18.

After making a 44-yard field goal to put the Rams up 3-0 in the first quarter, Grupe was hurt while attempting to make a tackle on the ensuing kickoff. He was listed as doubtful to return before being ruled out in the second half.

After the game, Rams head coach Sean McVay did not provide an update on the extent of Grupe’s injury, but multiple reports indicate Grupe left SoFi Stadium on crutches and with a brace on his right leg — his kicking leg.

Punter Ethan Evans took over Los Angeles’ kicking duties following Grupe’s injury. He made an extra point that put the Rams ahead of the Arizona Cardinals 16-15 with 47 seconds left.

The Cardinals answered with a 43-yard field goal from Chad Ryland as time expired to earn an 18-16 win.

Grupe joined the Rams on Tuesday, Oct. 13. He replaced University of Missouri alum Harrison Mevis, who was waived after going 5-for-9 on his field goal attempts this season, including 0-for-2 in the Rams’ 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday, Oct. 12.

In his career, Grupe is 87-for-106 (82.1%) on his field goal attempts and 96-for-98 (98%) on his extra point attempts. He has a career-long field goal of 60 yards.

The Rams (2-4) visit the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, Oct. 25.

Sports editor Jack Denebeim can be reached at 660-530-0142.