After missing the Los Angeles Rams' Week 2 matchup vs. the New York Giants on Monday night, it sounds like wide receiver Puka Nacua will miss his second-straight primetime game. The Rams listed Nacua's injury as a hip ailment, although coach Sean McVay explained that the injury is more of a groin issue. On Friday, two days before the Rams' Sunday Night Football matchup vs. the Denver Broncos, McVay told reporters that Nacua is "doubtful" to play in Week 3, ESPN's Ian Rapoport reported.
However, Nacua's injury isn't expected to be a long-term problem. McVay noted that barring any setbacks, Nacua should be ready to return for Week 4's game vs. the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 4. The team isn't even considering putting Nacua on the injured reserve list.
"If he doesn't go this week, the expectations are, unless there's a setback, that he'll be good for next week," McVay said. The Rams didn't struggle by any means with Nacua out on Monday night. His absence allowed for veteran receiver Davante Adams to explode offensively as he recorded 195 yards and two touchdowns from eight catches.
With Nacua likely out for a second-straight game, the Rams and quarterback Matthew Stafford need to capitalize on giving opportunities to other offensive targets. Second-year tight end Terrance Ferguson became the second-most used target for Stafford on Monday night, catching six passes for 54 yards and one touchdown. He'll likely be utilized heavily again on Sunday night.
Other tight ends like Colby Parkinson, Davis Allen and Tyler Higbee need to step up on the field, too, so the Rams don't have to rely just on stars like Nacua and Adams. Nacua's absence gives the Rams the chance to strengthen the depth chart to become an even tougher and well-rounded team this season. Maybe they can redeem themselves from losing to the eventual Super Bowl LX champion Seahawks in the NFC Conference Championship last season.
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