The Los Angeles Rams, sitting dead last in special teams for a second consecutive year, just made a move that screams desperation: they signed linebacker Jon Rhattigan to their practice squad on Tuesday. This isn’t just any signing, folks. This is a six-year NFL veteran and former Army grad who should be an immediate fix for their special teams unit, a unit that’s been dragging them down.
Rhattigan’s Return and His Emerald City Roots
Rhattigan is a known quantity when it comes to special teams, having logged over 1,200 snaps in his career. He’s bounced around, suiting up for the Panthers, Steelers, and Raiders, but for those of us in the Emerald City, we remember him best from his time with *our* Seahawks. He went undrafted in 2021 but we snatched him up, and he appeared in 14 games for us as a rookie. He’s not exactly a defensive superstar, with only 20 career snaps at linebacker, but as a pure special teams contributor? He’s definitely valuable. Last year alone, he racked up 236 special teams snaps in 12 games with the Raiders. The news broke via Aaron Wilson on social media, making the rounds quickly.
Stakes Are Sky-High for the Rams’ Kicking Game
The stakes could not be higher for the Rams’ special teams, which have been an absolute mess, ranking 32nd in the league for two years straight. Seriously, 32nd! It’s an embarrassment. Rhattigan’s arrival is a clear attempt to inject some veteran leadership and proven ability into that struggling unit. It shows just how urgent the situation is that a practice squad signee is already being eyed for immediate impact. He could get elevated for a role as soon as this weekend when the Rams face off against the Chargers. Clips of his special teams prowess from 2025 were already circulating, a sign of what the Rams hope they are getting.
To clear a spot for Rhattigan, the Rams released linebacker Eli Neal and cornerback Nyzier Fourqurean from their practice squad. Neal is the more recognized of the two, having played in 10 games for the Rams over three seasons. But clearly, the Rams prioritize getting their special teams straight.
What’s Next for the Rams?
The Rams are desperate for Rhattigan to make an impact immediately. Their special teams unit is a major weakness, and this weekend’s game against the Chargers is his first chance to show if he can bring some stability. All eyes will be on whether Rhattigan can be the shot in the arm their special teams so clearly needs.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Turf Show Times.
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