Rams Wide Receiver Puka Nacua Nearing Return After Two-Game Absence
Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay announced that receiver Puka Nacua will return to practice and is expected to play against the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Los Angeles Rams received a significant boost on Wednesday as All-Pro wide receiver Puka Nacua returned to practice for the first time in nearly two weeks. Head coach Sean McVay announced Nacua's return, stating that he is "expected" to be available for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Nacua is slated to be a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. His return to the field follows a successful workout session prior to the Rams' recent game against the Denver Broncos. If he continues to progress, Nacua is on track to play at Lincoln Financial Field in Week 4.
The absence of Nacua, sidelined by a groin injury, had kept him out of consecutive games against the New York Giants and the Broncos. The Rams had officially listed the injury as hip-related, though McVay had previously described it as a groin issue. Los Angeles has exercised caution with the player since the injury surfaced after a full practice in preparation for the Giants game.
"When you have soft tissue injuries with guys like that that are skilled players, you're going to err on the side of caution," McVay commented on Nacua's injury.
Nacua recorded five receptions for 74 yards in the Rams' season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers. His absence has impacted an offense that has relied heavily on Davante Adams as one of quarterback Matthew Stafford's primary targets. His return is anticipated for a crucial NFC matchup that could impact the Rams' season record, currently at 1-2.
In other injury news, defensive tackle Aaron Donald did not practice on Wednesday due to back soreness, adding another health concern for the team to monitor as the week progresses.