Rams place star wide receiver Puka Nacua on injured reserve
A day after the Los Angeles Rams lost their season opener in overtime against the Detroit Lions, the team announced that star wide receiver Puka Nacua will be placed on the injured reserve.
The designation will force the Pro Bowl wideout to miss the next month. The issue is a PCL sprain that he suffered in the first half against the Lions.
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“You can see he’s an impact player,” McVay said via ESPN. “He gets four targets, he has four catches for almost 50 yards. He has a jet sweep, he does stuff in the run game. He’s a factor. He just is one of those guys that just makes a difference. And so, it’s unfortunate for him, and I’m bummed out for the person more importantly.”
Nacua’s absence creates a significant void in the Rams’ offense, as he’s been a key factor in the passing game. Cooper Kupp stepped up with him out against Detroit, tying his career-best mark with 14 catches for 110 receiving yards and a touchdown.
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Matthew Stafford will likely continue to use him as the primary passing game target. Meanwhile Demarcus Robinson, Colby Parkinson, TuTu Atwell, Tyler Johnson, and rookie Jordan Whittington will look to help fill the massive void.
The Rams may also lean more heavily into the running game to bring more balance to the offense. However, Los Angeles is also dealing with issues with its offensive line. Second-year left guard Steve Avila was also placed on the injured reserve. As well as that, left tackle Joe Noteboom is expected to miss time.
