Puka Nacua returned from a two-game absence and immediately gave the Los Angeles Rams a major boost, collecting nine receptions for 125 yards and scoring in a 24-20 road win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Rams wide receiver had been sidelined by a hip injury that limited his ability to change direction, but he played 70 offensive snaps against Philadelphia, accounting for 90.9% of Los Angeles’ offensive workload. Nacua said he made it through the game without hip or groin pain.
Nacua makes immediate impact
- Nacua opened the scoring for Los Angeles in the second quarter, taking a two-yard rushing attempt into the end zone for the Rams’ first touchdown.
- He remained heavily involved throughout the afternoon, finishing with nine catches and 125 receiving yards.
- His production included several difficult late-game catches in traffic over the middle as the Rams protected their lead.
- NFL Next Gen Stats credited Nacua with 42 yards after catch and plus-18 yards after catch over expected.
Despite missing the previous two games, Nacua still ranks eighth in the NFL this season in yards after catch over expected. Across his two appearances this year, he has totaled 14 receptions for 199 yards.
Stafford, McVay praise receiver’s return
Matthew Stafford said Nacua looked like the same playmaker the Rams rely on when healthy.
“He brings energy to our team,” Stafford said. “He made some difficult catches late, working the middle with defenders all over him. He looked like Puka to me.”
Head coach Sean McVay said Nacua was especially important during decisive situations against an Eagles defense directed by Vic Fangio. McVay noted that Philadelphia changed its coverage looks, but the Rams identified opportunities to get the ball to Nacua.
“He was essential in those critical moments,” McVay said. “Vic does a great job varying the coverages, but we saw some ways to get Puka involved. Matthew was able to do that, and Puka was often matched against a corner I respect a great deal.”
Hip holds up through four quarters
Nacua said Los Angeles’ medical staff helped him manage the injury during the game by keeping him warm on the sideline. He expected normal soreness after the contest, particularly during the flight home and the following day, but said he felt good while playing all four quarters.
The performance gave the Rams a productive return from one of their top offensive targets and helped them leave Philadelphia with a four-point victory.
