Full Breakdown
Rams Face Injury Concerns Ahead of Preseason: Nacua’s Groin Soreness and Garrett’s Knee Swelling
8/12/2026, 8:03:07 AM
Core Event – Practice Injuries at Joint Session
During a joint training-camp practice with the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua exited early, and defensive end Myles Garrett did not participate. McVay confirmed Nacua left after a brief session with trainers, while Garrett was observed wearing a sleeve on his left leg and was absent due to knee swelling. Both players are key contributors for a Rams team that hopes to contend for a Super Bowl.
Background & Context – Recent Production and Contract Stakes
Nacua, 25, entered the 2026 season in the final year of his rookie contract after leading the league with 129 receptions, 1,715 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns last season, earning first-team All-Pro honors. Garrett, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, set a new single-season sack record with 23 sacks in 2025 and was acquired from the Cleveland Browns in June. Their health directly influences contract negotiations and preseason roster decisions.
Data & Statistics – Season Highlights
| Player | 2025 Highlights | 2026 Contract Situation |
|---|---|---|
| Puka Nacua | 129 catches, 1,715 yards, 10 TDs (league-leading) | Final year of rookie deal; base salary ? $5.8 M |
| Myles Garrett | 23 sacks (NFL record) | New acquisition; seven-time Pro Bowler |
Official Statements & Responses – Coaching Staff Assessment
Head coach Sean McVay said he was unaware of the specific issue that caused Nacua’s early departure and offered no immediate update on the receiver’s status. He noted that Garrett’s knee swelling left him feeling “about 85 %,” emphasizing a cautious approach guided by the team’s sports-medicine staff. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Nacua’s discomfort was limited to minor groin soreness and that the Rams were being precautionary. Quarterback Matthew Stafford observed no panic among teammates and expressed uncertainty about the exact nature of Nacua’s issue.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps – Date Discrepancy and Knee Details
Sources differ on the exact calendar date of the incident. The joint practice is described as occurring on August 11, 2026 (McVay’s remarks and Heavy’s report) and also referenced in a Reuters release dated August 12 as the day the injury was reported. Visual evidence showed a sleeve on Garrett’s left leg, though McVay did not specify which knee was swollen.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Puka left early on in the practice,” — Sean McVay, Rams head coach
- “I’m not really sure what the issue was,” — Matthew Stafford
- “I don't have an update on that,” — Sean McVay, Rams head coach
What’s Next – Upcoming Preseason Opener
The Rams open their preseason slate against the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, August 15. Coaches indicated that starters are unlikely to see extensive snaps, suggesting that both Nacua’s and Garrett’s readiness will be evaluated in the weeks leading up to the regular season.
