The Los Angeles Rams could enter Monday night’s matchup with the New York Giants short-handed at wide receiver, as Puka Nacua has been listed as questionable with hip and groin concerns.
Head coach Sean McVay said Nacua’s current groin soreness is unrelated to the psoas injury that sidelined him during training camp. The two-time Pro Bowler did not practice Friday and was scheduled to miss Saturday’s workout as well.
- Puka Nacua, wide receiver: Questionable for Monday with hip and groin soreness.
- Jordan Whittington, wide receiver: Doubtful because of a quad injury.
- Myles Garrett, defensive lineman: On injured reserve after knee surgery.
- Aaron Donald, defensive lineman: Expected to make his season debut after coming out of retirement late in August.
Nacua was Los Angeles’ most productive receiver in its Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, catching five passes for 74 yards. His 41-yard reception accounted for much of that output, but no other Rams player topped 30 receiving yards in the opener.
If Nacua cannot play or is limited against New York, Davante Adams would be positioned to take on a larger role as Matthew Stafford’s primary target. Whittington’s likely absence would further test the Rams’ depth at the position.
Konata Mumpfield, Xavier Smith, CJ Daniels and Tutu Atwell are among the available wide receivers who could be asked to contribute. Los Angeles also has a deep tight end group led by Tyler Higbee and Terrance Ferguson.
The Rams’ injury concerns extend beyond the offense. Garrett is unavailable following his knee procedure, though Donald is set to provide a major boost on the defensive front in his first game since ending a two-year retirement.
Week ahead
Los Angeles will host the Giants on Monday, with kickoff scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET. Nacua’s availability remains unresolved as the Rams prepare for the prime-time game, while Donald is expected to be in uniform for his season debut.
