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Puka Nacua Questionable as Aaron Donald Returns Monday Night

By Drooid · Sep 19, 2026, 10:31 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Aaron Donald Returns

Puka Nacua is listed as questionable for Monday night against the New York Giants due to groin soreness.
Coach Sean McVay said Nacua missed Saturday practice because of groin soreness separate from a prior hip issue.
Jordan Whittington, the Rams’ backup wide receiver, is doubtful for the game with a quadriceps injury.
Aaron Donald is expected to play Monday night, marking his first game since ending retirement.

Summary

Rams Struggle Offense

Rams allowed a 71.4% rushing success rate against the 49ers, exposing run-defense weakness.
Rams converted only 2 of 9 third-downs, highlighting offensive stagnation.
Coach Sean McVay said the team must improve pass-game rhythm and fix the offensive disconnect.
Defensive tackle Kobie Turner called Donald’s return an extra jolt of locker-room enthusiasm.
Analysts say Donald’s interior presence could force extra blockers, shifting matchups despite Garrett’s loss.

History

Historical Context

After a decade of losing seasons, the Rams hired Dick Vermeil in 1997; when Trent Green was injured in the 1999 preseason, undrafted Kurt Warner led a 13-3 turnaround, winning Super Bowl XXXIV on Jan 30 2000 with a +284 point differential. Today, Sean McVay hopes injuries to receivers Puka Nacua and Jordan Whittington and Aaron Donald’s return can spark a similar revival.

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Aaron Donald Returns

Puka Nacua is listed as questionable for Monday night against the New York Giants due to groin soreness.
Coach Sean McVay said Nacua missed Saturday practice because of groin soreness separate from a prior hip issue.
Jordan Whittington, the Rams’ backup wide receiver, is doubtful for the game with a quadriceps injury.
Aaron Donald is expected to play Monday night, marking his first game since ending retirement.

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