Puka Nacua injury update: LA Rams decide on WR’s status for TNF vs. Vikings

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua will play tonight against the Minnesota Vikings, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Nacua hasn’t played since the Rams’ loss against the Detroit Lions in Week 1 when he suffered a knee injury.

In the loss, Nacua recorded four catches for 35 total yards. The Rams will welcome Nacua’s return. The team is currently 2-4 and will need all the help it can find to take down the Vikings, who are 5-1.

Nacua’s injury was to his posterior cruciate ligament, which he initially injured in training camp but reaggravated against the Lions. The Rams haven’t rushed Nacua’s recovery, hoping to prevent any further aggravation.

Now, Nacua will look to do damage for Los Angeles. He certainly has the tools to do so. In his debut campaign last season, Nacua tallied the most receptions (105) and receiving yards (1,486) by a rookie in NFL history.

Further, Nacua caught nine passes for 181 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown, in the Rams’ 24–23 loss to the Detroit Lions in the NFC Wild Card Round — the most receiving yards in a playoff game by a rookie ever.

Puka Nacua isn’t the only standout wide receiver returning for the Rams on Thursday night. Additionally, Cooper Kupp is returning after missing four games due to a left high ankle sprain. There are no reported limitations for Kupp.

In his two appearances this season, Kupp has collected receptions for 147 yards and a touchdown. With Nacua and Kupp returning from injury, the Rams’ offense will be revamped and dangerous on Thursday. The Rams and Vikings will square off at 8:15 ET. The game will air live on Prime Video.