Rams' Aaron Donald Out vs. Eagles With Back Soreness; Puka Nacua to Return
Coach Sean McVay states the team is protecting the star defensive tackle from himself, while receiver Puka Nacua is cleared to play after a hip injury.
Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald will miss Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles due to back soreness, head coach Sean McVay announced. McVay stated that the decision was made to protect the veteran star from potential further injury, even if he felt capable of playing.
"He's as tough as they get, just not feeling good enough," McVay said of Donald. "And I think it would be irresponsible on my part — and obviously talking with [team doctor] Reggie [Scott] — to ask him. He would do it and he could probably go be productive, but part of our job is to protect these tough dudes like him from themselves."
Donald, who came out of retirement in late August to rejoin the Rams, has been dealing with back issues. McVay expressed optimism about Donald's recovery, noting that "good days are ahead."
In a contrasting piece of team news, wide receiver Puka Nacua is set to return for the Rams after being sidelined for the past two games with a hip injury. McVay indicated that Nacua "looked sharp" during practices this week, including the more physically demanding portions.
Nacua had five receptions for 74 yards in Week 1. The Rams, who were considered Super Bowl favorites in the preseason, currently hold a 1-2 record heading into Week 4.