The Los Angeles Rams have officially moved star wide receiver Puka Nacua to the injured reserve list following a series of lower-body injuries sustained during the team’s victory against the Washington Commanders.
Nacua was diagnosed with PCL and MCL strains along with turf toe, prompting the team to adjust its roster strategy after initially indicating he would not be placed on the list, according to Yahoo Sports.
Head coach Sean McVay clarified that the decision was driven by the necessity to open a roster spot for Brennan Pressly, who was promoted from the practice squad, as noted in reporting by LA Sports Report.
“We needed the roster spot,” McVay stated regarding the team’s internal mechanics.
The coach further explained that the move was not based on any change in the receiver’s recovery timeline, noting that “there was never gonna be a time that he was gonna be able to return prior to what I suggested.”
Nacua has been a focal point of the Rams’ offense this season, leading the team with 70 catches for 715 yards.
Despite the severity of his injuries, the organization remains optimistic about a potential return toward the end of the season as the team pushes for a postseason berth, per LA Sports Report.
McVay confirmed that the player has already begun his rehabilitation process.
“He’s in good spirits, started his rehab, and taking it a little bit at a time,” the coach said.
In the absence of both Nacua and Davante Adams, the team is expected to rely more heavily on its ground game led by Blake Corum and Kyren Williams.
Additionally, receivers Konata Mumpfield and Tutu Atwell are expected to see an increased share of targets as the Rams prepare for their upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals.