Rams' Ethan Evans' Punting Shines Bright vs. Raiders

Have the Los Angeles Rams found a punter for years to come with seventh-round rookie Ethan Evans?

The Los Angeles Rams struggled throughout their 34-17 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders on Saturday night.

The Rams' offense, defense and special teams return coverage failed to meet expectations, not only against the Raiders but also against the Los Angeles Chargers last week as well.

Although an offense never wants to see their punter trot onto the field, rookie Ethan Evans has had to do so quite a bit. However, he's been nothing short of excellent over the Rams' first two preseason games.

Last week against the Chargers, the seventh-rounder averaged about 51.3 yards per punt, including two for over 60 yards.

Evans was even better on Saturday night against the Las Vegas Raiders, as he amassed an absurd 55.4 yards per punt. All seven of his punts were over 50 yards, including one for 65.

Over the first two weeks of the preseason, Evans has averaged 53.5 yards per punt, which is the third-most in the NFL. Nevertheless, he has punted more than anyone (13) and has the most yards overall (696).

When the Rams selected Evans with the No. 223 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, not many knew his name. It's hard to get recognition as a punter to begin with, but especially so when playing at Wingate, a Division II school. In fact, Evans was one of only two Division II players taken in this year's draft.

In his final season at Wingate, Evans averaged 45.7 yards per punt. He was one of only three punters selected in the 2023 draft.

The Rams drafted Evans after former starter Riley Dixon declared for free agency on March 13. Evans was the team's only punter when he was selected and that remains the same today. 

Evans will be the Week 1 starter and, based on how he's performed thus far in the preseason, he has the potential to control the position for years to come.

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