Puka Nacua Latest Injury Update: Will Rams Star Miss More Games After Ankle Sprain?

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua suffered an ankle injury during the team’s Week 6 win over the Baltimore Ravens, raising major concerns about his availability going forward. The 23-year-old star, who leads the NFL in receptions this season, was hurt in the second quarter after a mid-air collision with Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey.

Although Nacua returned to the field for limited snaps in the second half, he did not register additional stats and appeared to be favoring his left leg. With the Rams preparing to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in London in Week 7, the big question now is how long the team’s WR1 will be sidelined.

Puka Nacua Injury Update and Expected Return Timeline

According to NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo, Nacua suffered a sprained ankle and is “in doubt” for the upcoming international game against the Jaguars. He also noted that Los Angeles has a bye week following the London matchup, making it likely the team will give their star pass-catcher additional time to recover. This means Nacua could potentially return in Week 9 if his recovery goes as expected.

Rams head coach Sean McVay provided further clarity on Monday, telling reporters that Nacua is “day-to-day” and that his status for Week 7 remains uncertain. ESPN’s Sarah Barshop reported McVay said Nacua “felt pretty good” and that the medical team was “encouraged” by the scan results. Still, the decision on whether he suits up in London will depend on how he responds to treatment throughout the week.

This setback comes as Nacua is in the middle of a breakout campaign. After being elevated to WR1 following Cooper Kupp’s release and paired with new addition Davante Adams, Nacua has thrived in the lead role. He leads the league with 54 receptions, including an NFL-record 52 catches through the first five games of the season. He also ranks second in receiving yards behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba and has two touchdowns to his name.

The Rams, now 4-2 after defeating Baltimore 17-3, face a crucial test against the 4-2 Jaguars. Without Nacua, their offense would lose its most reliable target, potentially impacting their momentum as they push toward a playoff berth.

What Nacua’s Absence Means for the Rams

Should Nacua sit out in Week 7, the Rams will likely turn to veteran Davante Adams and Tutu Atwell to shoulder the receiving load. Tight end Tyler Higbee may also see increased targets, while the team could lean more on its run game to balance the offense. Still, Nacua’s chemistry with quarterback Matthew Stafford and his ability to create separation make him nearly irreplaceable.

Beyond the on-field impact, Nacua’s absence would also disrupt the Rams’ offensive rhythm just as the unit was finding consistency. His presence has helped open up space for other receivers and forced defenses to adjust their coverage schemes. Missing even one game could challenge Los Angeles’ depth and creativity on offense.

Fans and fantasy football managers alike will be watching practice reports closely this week. If Nacua is unable to practice fully by midweek, the team will likely err on the side of caution and rest him until after the bye. That timeline would put his return around early November, giving him roughly three weeks to fully recover from the sprain.

For now, the Rams list Puka Nacua as day-to-day with a sprained ankle, and his Week 7 status remains uncertain. A return after the team’s bye in Week 9 appears most likely, but all eyes will be on how he progresses in the coming days.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How long will Puka Nacua be out?

Nacua is considered day-to-day with a sprained ankle. He is doubtful for Week 7, and a return after the Rams’ bye in Week 9 is most likely.

Q2: Will Puka Nacua play against the Jaguars in Week 7?

His status is uncertain. Coach Sean McVay said the team will monitor his progress throughout the week before making a decision.

Q3: What happened to Puka Nacua?

Nacua injured his left ankle after a mid-air collision with Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey in Week 6. He returned for limited snaps but was clearly not at 100%.

Q4: How has Puka Nacua performed this season?

Nacua leads the NFL with 54 receptions, ranks second in receiving yards, and has two touchdowns through six games.

Q5: Who will replace Nacua if he misses time?

The Rams will rely on Davante Adams, Tutu Atwell, and Tyler Higbee to step up in the passing game if Nacua sits out Week 7.