The Los Angeles Rams will be without their leading receiver for an extended stretch after Puka Nacua suffered several injuries in Sunday’s 20-13 win over the Washington Commanders.
Nacua sprained his MCL and PCL and also injured his toe. Coach Sean McVay said Wednesday that the team does not plan to place him on injured reserve, citing roster considerations, but confirmed he will miss significant time.
Nacua had already missed two games this season, yet has been highly productive when available. Across seven games, the two-time Pro Bowler has caught 70 passes for 715 yards and four touchdowns.
The Rams are also without Davante Adams, who has been sidelined by a hamstring injury sustained in Week 6. McVay said the team is aiming for Adams to return for its Week 12 matchup with the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving Eve.
Adams has recorded 30 receptions for 480 yards and four touchdowns in six games. With both top receivers out, Los Angeles will need Konata Mumpfield, Tutu Atwell, CJ Daniels and Xavier Smith to take on larger roles, while also making use of its deep tight end group.
McVay said Adams’ anticipated return was among the factors behind the Rams’ decision not to add a receiver before the trade deadline. He noted that trades depend on what is available and what a team is prepared to give up, adding that Los Angeles is hopeful Adams will be back sooner rather than later.
The Rams have won three straight and are 5-4. They face the Arizona Cardinals, who beat Los Angeles earlier this season, on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET. Arizona is set to start rookie quarterback Carson Beck.
