The Los Angeles Rams expect wide receiver Puka Nacua to return Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles after he missed the past two games with a lingering hip and groin issue.
Coach Sean McVay said Wednesday that Nacua was set for limited work in practice, signaling that the receiver is on track to be available for the Week 4 matchup. Nacua’s injury involves the psoas area and has troubled him since training camp.
Nacua nearing return for Rams
- Nacua dealt with the injury throughout training camp, prompting concern that surgery could eventually become necessary during the 2026 season.
- He nevertheless played in the Rams’ opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, catching five passes for 74 yards in the loss.
- The second-year wideout then missed Los Angeles’ next two games.
- McVay indicated Wednesday that Nacua would practice on a limited basis and is expected to suit up against Philadelphia.
Nacua’s return would restore a major element of the Rams’ passing attack. Matthew Stafford has relied heavily on Davante Adams during Nacua’s absence, with the veteran receiver posting 15 catches, 332 receiving yards and two touchdowns over the last two weeks.
Adams’ production has kept the offense moving, but Los Angeles became easier to anticipate without its other top receiving threat, particularly after halftime of its Week 3 defeat against Denver. Nacua’s ability to work all areas of the field should give Stafford more options and lessen the attention Adams draws from opposing defenses.
Donald held out of Wednesday practice
McVay also said defensive tackle Aaron Donald would not take part in Wednesday’s session because of back soreness. No further update on Donald’s availability for Sunday was provided.
Eagles enter after rough loss
The Rams will face a Philadelphia team coming off a decisive loss to the Chicago Bears. In that game, 38-year-old Bears quarterback Case Keenum threw for 247 yards and two touchdowns against the Eagles.
If Nacua is able to resume his usual role quickly, Stafford could have a fuller receiving corps for a game against a Philadelphia defense that is looking to rebound.
