Puka Nacua Returns to Practice, Aaron Donald's Status Uncertain

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has returned to practice and is expected to play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Nacua missed the team's last two games due to a hip-area injury, but participated fully in Thursday's practice, according to his own assessment.

Nacua described the injury as causing "sharp pains" and restriction in his movements, particularly with changes in direction. This is the second time this season Nacua has dealt with an issue in a similar area, having previously sustained a psoas injury during training camp.

"In some of the change-of-direction stuff, some of the stuff in my hip area just was not feeling great," Nacua told reporters. "It was causing me some pain and some restriction in some of my movements. I was trying to grind through it, but definitely some sharp pains that I started to feel that put me down."

While Nacua is optimistic about his return, he is taking his recovery day by day. "I felt great being out there, I’m getting my feet under me, hearing all the play calls," he said. "I can’t think of anything else but smiling."

Meanwhile, concern is growing around defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who missed practice for the second consecutive day Thursday due to back soreness. Donald, in his first season back after a brief retirement, has been carefully managed by the team.

His absence from practice is notable, especially as Friday typically serves as his veteran rest day. Donald has played in only two games since returning to the NFL after a more than two-year absence. His status for Sunday's game in Philadelphia remains uncertain.

Coach Sean McVay is expected to provide further updates on both Nacua's and Donald's availability on Friday.