Puka Nacua's Groin Injury Lingers, Rams Await His Return Ahead of Broncos Matchup

The Los Angeles Rams are navigating uncertainty regarding star wide receiver Puka Nacua's availability for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, as he continues to deal with a lingering groin injury. Nacua was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's practice, a day after the Rams secured a victory over the New York Giants.

Coach Sean McVay expressed his own lack of clarity on the injury, stating, “These soft tissue things, I wish I had better information.” This marks the second consecutive practice Nacua has missed due to the issue that kept him out of the Monday night game against the Giants.

Nacua reportedly felt soreness and a lack of full speed during a practice last Thursday, leading to him being sidelined for the remainder of the week and ultimately ruled out for the Giants game. He had been on the field for pregame warmups but determined he was not well enough to play.

McVay described the injury as potentially "pre-hernia," emphasizing that Nacua does not have a hernia and that rest is the primary treatment. The team is hopeful Nacua will be able to return to practice later this week, though his status for Sunday remains a day-to-day consideration.

This current injury is in the same general area as groin and psoas issues Nacua dealt with during the preseason. While McVay maintains the injuries are separate, the proximity is noted. Last season, Nacua's only game action and reception came in the season opener in Melbourne, where he caught five passes for 74 yards in a loss to the San Francisco 49ers.