The Los Angeles Rams have added punter Jack Bouwmeester to their roster, bringing the total number of punters to two as they gear up for a preseason matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Bouwmeester, an Australian, benefits from the NFL's international pathway program exemption, which allows the team to retain his rights without affecting their practice squad limits.
At 27 years old, Bouwmeester has experience playing college football at Michigan State, Utah, and Texas. He went undrafted this year and had a short tenure with the San Francisco 49ers before being waived last week. His accolades include first-team All-Pac 12 honors in 2023 and second-team All-Big 12 recognition in 2024.
Ethan Evans, who has been performing well, remains a strong candidate for the punter position. The addition of Bouwmeester provides the Rams with further options should Evans face any difficulties during the preseason. Special teams have raised concerns for head coach Sean McVay, and Bouwmeester's signing could potentially help mitigate those issues.
The Rams can retain Bouwmeester on their practice squad after final roster cuts without it impacting their 16-man limit until he is promoted or signed by another team.