Full Breakdown
Puka Nacua’s Injury Clouds Rams’ Week 3 Showdown with the Broncos
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is listed as doubtful for Week 3 “Sunday Night Football” against the Denver Broncos. Coach Sean McVay says the issue is primarily groin soreness, not the psoas injury that sidelined him in August. Nacua has not practiced since September 24, 2026 and missed the win over the New York Giants. McVay indicated that, barring a setback, Nacua should be available for the Week 4 road game against the Philadelphia Eagles and the team is not considering injured reserve.
Background & Context
The Rams described the problem as “a little bit of soreness” in his groin. Despite his absence, Los Angeles defeated the Giants 28–6, with veteran Davante Adams posting eight catches for 195 yards and two touchdowns.
Data & Statistics
- Puka Nacua: 5 receptions for 74 yards in the season opener; led the NFL with 129 receptions and 1,715 receiving yards in 2025; two-time All-Pro.
- Davante Adams (Week 2): 8 receptions, 195 yards, 2 touchdowns.
- Terrance Ferguson (Week 2): 6 receptions, 54 yards, 1 touchdown.
- Rams’ offensive efficiency with Nacua on the field: 6.8 yards/play vs. 5.0 yards/play without him.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If he doesn’t go this week, the expectations are, unless there’s a setback, that he’ll be good for next week.” — Sean McVay
- “I think doubtful means it's more unlikely than likely to play.” — Sean McVay
- “If he's ready to go, great,” — Sean McVay
On-the-Ground Reports
The Rams’ injury report ahead of the Broncos game listed Nacua as doubtful, along with safety Kam Kinchens (hamstring) and tight end Colby Parkinson (knee). Wide receiver Jordan Whittington was listed as “good to go” after missing the previous week with a quad issue.
Why It Matters
Nacua’s ability to line up outside or in the slot expands the Rams’ playbook. His absence forces the offense to rely on Davante Adams and the emerging tight-end group led by Terrance Ferguson. Against a Broncos secondary anchored by Patrick Surtain II, the Rams may find it harder to generate big plays without Nacua’s speed and contested-catch ability. The situation also has immediate fantasy-football implications, as managers must pivot to Adams, Ferguson, and other depth players for Week 3 production.
Overall, the Rams are proceeding with a cautious, short-term health strategy for Nacua, hoping to have him back for the pivotal Week 4 matchup while navigating a challenging road game against a strong Denver defense.