Rams receiver Puka Nacua will undergo an MRI on his knee Monday after being injured on the final offensive play of Sunday’s win, ESPN Deportes reported.
Initial assessments from the team suggest the injury is not an ACL tear.
The injury occurred during a third-down carry in the victory over the Washington Commanders. Nacua took a hard hit on the play but walked off the field under his own power. His return to the lineup depends on the results of the MRI, which is scheduled for Monday.
Nacua Underwent Evaluation After a Heavy Blow to His Knee
Nacua’s injury came on a 5-yard run by land in the final moments of the game. After absorbing a heavy blow, he remained on the ground briefly before exiting. Post-game, he was not made available to speak about the knee injury. When asked about a visit to the blue medical tent during the game, Nacua said he was evaluated for a possible concussion but cleared to return.
The Rams’ initial prognosis, as relayed by ESPN Deportes, is positive regarding the severity of the injury. However, the MRI results are the definitive step in determining the extent of the damage and the timeline for his return.
Historic Performance Before Injury
Despite the injury concern, Nacua delivered a standout performance before exiting the game. He finished with 14 receptions for 150 yards and one touchdown, targeted 19 times by quarterback Matthew Stafford in the victory.
This game marked the ninth time in Nacua’s regular-season career that he has reached at least 150 receiving yards. The achievement breaks a tie with Hall of Famers Jerry Rice and Randy Moss, placing him alone in second place for the most such games in a player’s first four seasons since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger, according to ESPN Research.
Recent Receptions Surge
Nacua’s recent production has been remarkable. His 25 receptions over the last two games are the second-highest total for a Rams player in the Super Bowl era. During that same span, the next-closest Rams players—Tutu Atwell, Colby Parkinson, and Kyren Williams—each had four receptions, highlighting Nacua’s dominant role in the offense.
Monday's MRI Will Determine Nacua's Recovery Progress
The key next step is Monday’s MRI, which will provide clarity on the nature and severity of Nacua’s knee injury.
The Rams’ next game is scheduled for. Nacua’s availability for that contest will depend on the findings of his MRI and his subsequent recovery progress.
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