The Los Angeles Rams have found their replacement for Johnny Hekker. The team announced on Tuesday that it has signed veteran punter Riley Dixon to a one-year deal. The terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Dixon, 28, spent the last four years with the New York Giants after beginning his career with the Denver Broncos in 2016, a team he was with for two seasons. Last year in New York, Dixon punted it 74 times for 3,283 yards, with a long of 63 yards and a net average of 39.5.
He pinned 24 of his punts inside the 20-yard line, which was tied for 11th-best in the NFL. He did have six touchbacks, however, which was tied for sixth-most.
Welcome to LA, @RileyTDixon92! 🙌
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) April 5, 2022
Dixon was a quarterback in high school and has attempted three passes in his career, completing one for a 16-yard gain in 2016. Hekker was a trick-play specialist with his throwing ability, so perhaps Dixon can pick up a first down or two with his arm next season.
He actually played for Rams special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis when both were in Denver in 2016. Dixon averaged 45.7 yards per punt that year as a rookie.
