Puka Nacua exited the Los Angeles Rams’ win over the New Orleans Saints early due to injured ribs. Rams head coach Sean McVay asserted that Nacua could have returned to the contest had it still hung in the balance, but the latest update has drawn attention.
Nacua has already missed one game this season, sitting out Week 7 against the Jacksonville Jaguars after suffering an ankle injury in Week 6 against the Baltimore Ravens.
This new injury threatens the 2023 Pro Bowler’s status for Week 10.
Rams WR Puka Nauca Undergoes MRI on Injured Ribs
GettyPuka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams catches a pass for a touchdown in front of Kool-Aid McKinstry #4 of the New Orleans Saints.
McVay said he “unfortunately” did not have much to update regarding Nacua’s status for Week 10, when the Rams will visit the San Francisco 49ers. He remained optimistic about Nacua’s outlook.
McVay also revealed that the third-year pro, Nacua, would have an MRI to determine if there was any damage.
That is the part that drew further attention to the situation.
“He was going to get a scan today,” McVay told reporters on November 3, “to just kind of confirm where we’re at with those ribs. But I feel optimistic from some of my conversations with Reggie [Scott] in regards to where we’re potentially heading, but I will have more information for you on Wednesday. And appreciate you guys adjusting with me earlier. I apologize for not having more information like we’re accustomed to, when we do this a little bit later.”
McVay was effusive with praise for Nacua, who ranks second in receiving yards per game entering “Monday Night Football” in Week 9. He said that he remains “hopeful” that Nacua will be available.
Nacua said postgame that he felt “great” with the win but “picked up a bruise,” and that he would “enjoy getting some sleep.”
Sean McVay ‘Sick’ Over Puka Nacua Injury
GettyLos Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay looks on against the Dallas Cowboys.
McVay expressed revealing sentiments, questioning his decision-making on the play that led to Nacua’s injury. He also noted how much Naca means to the offense, sometimes in ways that do not show up in the box score.
McVay said Nacua was “outstanding” for them against the Saints, and that he is “such a tough, physical player” whose impact they felt “right away.”
He felt “sick” about the outcome.
“You’re saying, ‘Damn!’ You leave him susceptible to a great player pursuing from an inside-out location that gives him a good shot. So, that’s not on … him, that’s more on the play call. And unfortunately, you’re like, ‘Man, I feel like this is the best chance to be able to get us a yard,’ because of what a stud he is, and the structure we were anticipating,” McVay said.
“He was awesome. And I’m kicking myself about putting him in that spot where he sustained that shot to the ribs. And you always kind of, you’re – there’s occupational hazards in this game. But you’re always trying to pick and choose and make those decisions that are best for the team while also being smart. And it’s one of those deals, you look back in hindsight and you got to ask yourself about it as a coach.”
After starting all 17 games for the Rams as a rookie, Nacua missed six games in 2024. With the bye week already behind them, the Rams must manage their star wideout wisely. That is easier said than done, but having Davante Adams helps.
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