Here’s what McVay said about why he decided to let Blackburn go now

Sean McVay took a big step toward hopefully fixing an issue that has plagued the Los Angeles Rams all season. He fired special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn on Saturday, a move that came just days after the Rams allowed a punt return touchdown and missed a 48-yard go-ahead field goal in a stunning loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

McVay had never fired a coordinator in-season before but it’s clear his frustrations had boiled over with the Rams’ struggling special teams group. Thursday was just the final straw.

During his press conference on Monday, McVay explained the decision to move on from Blackburn with two weeks left in the regular season, citing the confidence he has in the Rams – a suggestion that the special teams unit was holding them back.

“What it really boiled down to was the confidence that I have in this football team and where I think we can head and where I think the areas of improvement are needed,” McVay said via the LA Daily News. “Through these 15 games, we learned a lot and man, I have so much confidence in this group. I’m so excited about the response from a disappointing outcome.”

McVay told reporters that he made the decision to move on from Blackburn shortly after the Rams’ loss to Seattle and told Blackburn the news on Friday morning. It was then made public by multiple reports on Saturday.

The Rams have struggled in just about every phase of special teams, from the kicking game to punt coverage and their own returns. Special teams have directly led to two losses this season, and it played a big role in their loss to the 49ers earlier this year, too.

“Can’t say enough good things about the human being, but it’s as simple as it really boils down to just thought this was best for the direction of our special teams,” McVay said via the team’s official site. “There’s been some things that we have to be better in some critical moments, and I do feel good about the leadership that will be had by Ben Kotwica.”

The Rams promoted Ben Kotwica from assistant special teams coach to special teams coordinator, the same position he held with the Broncos for the last two years. With 17 years of experience under his belt, McVay is confident he can right the ship the rest of the season.

“I think he’s urgent, accountable, very clear with regards to his communication style, and I’m excited for him to be able to lead the charge,” McVay said.