Rams star Nacua out for a month

Puka Nacua will miss at least four weeks of action after sustaining sprained ligaments in his right knee and turf toe during Sunday's game in Washington. The Los Angeles Rams' All-Pro receiver took a hard hit on a jet sweep during the final minute of the contest. He had 14 catches for 150 yards and a touchdown in that 20-13 victory.

Head Coach Sean McVay announced on Monday that the team plans to move Nacua to the injured reserve list. This places him alongside wide receiver Davante Adams, who is also out indefinitely with a hamstring injury. The loss leaves the offense without its two primary targets for a long stretch.

Nacua was hurt on a third-and-11 play just before the Rams punted the ball back to the Commanders. McVay said he has questioned that specific call repeatedly since the game ended. The MRI exam revealed sprains to the MCL and PCL in Nacua's knee as well as a sprain in his big toe.

The injury is a major setback for a team that started the season as a top contender. Nacua and Adams have accounted for 100 of the 120 receptions by Rams wide receivers this season. Nacua personally has 70 catches for 715 yards and four touchdowns in just seven games.

McVay noted that Nacua's physical playing style is central to his success, but it has led to recurring issues. The receiver missed two games in September with a groin injury and strained his calf in practice late last month. He has missed only eight games in his career due to injuries, though five of those occurred in 2024 when he suffered a similar knee injury.

The Rams may look to the trade market for help. McVay said last week that the team likely would not trade for a receiver, but Nacua's injury has opened the door to new discussions. The team has four remaining draft picks next year to use as trade capital. McVay stated that the staff will explore all avenues to address the roster gaps.

Starting guard Steve Avila will also be out for a significant period with a hamstring injury. The Rams are unsure if he will be placed on injured reserve because they risk using up all eight available slots for players who can return during the season. Avila is a key component of the running game behind a stable offensive line.

The injury list extends beyond the skill positions. Myles Garrett returned from knee surgery for three sacks in Washington after missing seven games. Cornerback Trent McDuffie missed his third game with a second injury this season. Cornerback Jaylen Watson is out for the year following shoulder surgery. McVay said the team must adjust and adapt to the new circumstances.