Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay announced Friday that wide receiver Puka Nacua will be listed as questionable for the upcoming Sunday matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. Nacua, who grew up in Las Vegas, suffered a calf injury during Thursday’s practice and is still being evaluated.
Impact on the Rams’ offense
Since returning from a psoas injury that kept him out of the first two games of the season, Nacua has been a bright spot for the struggling Rams. In the four games he has played, he has recorded 37 receptions for 417 yards and one touchdown. His production has helped keep the Rams’ passing attack competitive despite a 2‑4 record.
Last season, Nacua earned first‑team All‑Pro honors after posting a career‑high 129 catches for 1,715 yards and 11 touchdowns. His speed and route‑running ability make him a key target for quarterback Matthew Stafford, especially as the Rams look to rebound from a slow start.
Other injury news for both clubs
The Raiders are also dealing with injuries on their roster. Former Raider and veteran wideout Davante Adams was placed on injured reserve earlier this week after suffering a hamstring strain, and he is expected to miss at least six weeks. The loss of Adams further depletes the Raiders’ receiving corps as they prepare for a pivotal divisional game.
Los Angeles will also be without star defensive end Myles Garrett, who remains on injured reserve with a knee injury. Garrett’s absence weakens an already porous defensive line, putting additional pressure on the Rams’ secondary.
What the game means for the division
The Sunday contest is a crucial intra‑division battle. Both teams sit near the bottom of the AFC West, and a win could provide a much‑needed boost to morale and playoff hopes. The Rams will look to capitalize on home‑field advantage at SoFi Stadium, while the Raiders will aim to protect their unbeaten home record.
Fans in Las Vegas will be watching closely, especially given Nacua’s local roots. If he is cleared to play, his presence could energize the crowd and add a personal storyline to the game.
Looking ahead
McVay said the coaching staff will continue to monitor Nacua’s condition throughout the weekend and will make a final decision before kickoff. “We want Puka to be healthy and ready to contribute,” McVay stated. “We’ll have him ready if he’s able.”
The Rams are scheduled to host the Raiders at 4:25 p.m. PT on Sunday. The game will be broadcast nationally on Fox, with a live stream available through the NFL app.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
