The Los Angeles Rams are facing an intensifying injury crisis, with star wide receiver Puka Nacua leaving practice early on Thursday due to a calf injury. This latest setback adds to a challenging season for the team, which has seen multiple key players sustain significant injuries.
Nacua was listed as a limited participant on the Rams' official injury report ahead of their Week 7 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. The receiver was scheduled to speak with reporters following practice but became unavailable after sustaining the injury. Head coach Sean McVay is expected to provide an update on Nacua's status Friday morning.
This calf issue marks a new ailment for Nacua, who has already battled lower back, groin, and hip injuries throughout the season, causing him to miss consecutive games against the New York Giants and Denver Broncos. His availability for Sunday's game remains uncertain.
The Rams are coming off a disappointing 18-16 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, which dropped their record to 2-4 and put them in last place in the NFC West. The team's injury report has become extensive, resembling an emergency room more than a competitive roster.
Kicker Blake Grupe, who was recently signed to replace Harrison Mevis, suffered a season-ending torn ACL in the game against Arizona. Defensive tackle Poona Ford is also out for the year with a torn triceps.
Adding to the defensive concerns, defensive tackle Kobie Turner will be sidelined for four to six weeks with a groin strain. Veteran wide receiver Davante Adams is facing a 6-10 week absence after rupturing his hamstring and is expected to undergo surgery. Linebacker Nate Landman also recently joined the growing list of injured players with a concussion, compounding issues that already include defensive stars Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie.