In a development that could provide a much-needed spark to their sputtering offense, the Los Angeles Rams announced on Tuesday that they have opened the 21-day practice window for star wide receiver Puka Nacua. The second-year pro, who set rookie records for receptions and receiving yards last season, has been sidelined since suffering a PCL sprain in the Rams’ Week 1 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Nacua initially injured his knee during training camp but recovered in time to start the season opener. However, he re-aggravated the PCL sprain in the first half against Buffalo and has not seen the field since. His absence, coupled with a lingering ankle injury to Cooper Kupp, has left the Rams’ passing attack severely depleted.
Rams Eagerly Await Nacua’s Return
While the opening of Nacua’s practice window does not guarantee he will play in the Rams’ upcoming Thursday night matchup with the Minnesota Vikings, it is an encouraging sign that his return is imminent. Head coach Sean McVay expressed optimism about the young receiver’s progress, telling reporters, “Puka’s been working really hard to get back out there. We’re excited to see what he can do in practice this week.”
Nacua’s impact on the Rams’ offense cannot be overstated. As a rookie in 2023, he caught 105 passes for 1,486 yards, both NFL records for a first-year player. His emergence helped fill the void left by the departure of Robert Woods and Odell Beckham Jr., giving quarterback Matthew Stafford another reliable target alongside Kupp.
Kupp Also Nearing a Comeback
In more positive news for the Rams, McVay said the team expects Kupp to play Thursday against the Vikings. The All-Pro receiver has missed the last two games with a high ankle sprain suffered in Week 3. His return, combined with Nacua’s potential comeback, would provide a massive boost to an offense that ranks just 27th in passing yards per game this season.
“Getting Cooper back out there will be huge for us,” said Stafford. “And if we can get Puka going too, it opens up so many possibilities for our offense. Those guys are special players.”
– Matthew Stafford, Rams quarterback
The defending Super Bowl champions have struggled mightily this year, limping to a 2-4 start. Injuries have played a significant role in their regression, with several key starters missing extended time. But with Nacua and Kupp on the mend, the Rams hope they can begin to turn their season around, starting with a crucial division game against the Vikings.
Practice Window Explained
For those unfamiliar with the NFL’s injured reserve rules, the opening of Nacua’s 21-day practice window allows him to participate in team activities without being added to the active roster. The Rams now have three weeks to evaluate his progress and decide whether to activate him or keep him on IR for the remainder of the season.
- Players on injured reserve must miss a minimum of four games before returning to practice.
- Once a practice window is opened, the team has 21 days to either activate the player or shut him down for the season.
- There is no limit to the number of players a team can designate for return from IR.
With Nacua back on the practice field and Kupp set to return to game action, the Rams finally have some reason for optimism after a dismal first six weeks. If they can get their two star receivers healthy and productive, they may still have time to salvage their season and make a push for a playoff spot in the highly competitive NFC West.
