Rams Coach McVay Doubts Nacua Will Play Week 3 Amid Slow Groin Recovery

Key points

• Sean McVay indicated that Puka Nacua's groin recovery is stalled, with no clear timeline for his return.
• Nacua missed Wednesday's practice and is unlikely to play in Week 3 against the Denver Broncos.
• The Rams are being cautious to avoid a hernia, prioritizing long-term health over immediate availability.
• Davante Adams has stepped into the WR1 role, recording 195 yards and two touchdowns in Week 2.
• Tight end Terrance Ferguson is projected to become the team's No. 2 receiver in Nacua's absence.

Background

Puka Nacua has been dealing with groin soreness since leaving training camp in August 2026. The injury has caused him to miss Week 2 against the New York Giants and has raised concerns about his availability for the 2026 season. The Rams previously traded for Tutu Atwell to add depth at the receiver position, partly in anticipation of potential Nacua absences.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and Rams Wire both report that McVay is not optimistic about Nacua's progress, with NBC Sports emphasizing the lack of practice participation and Rams Wire noting the team's caution regarding a potential hernia. ESPN's coverage was unavailable due to a server error, but earlier reports from ESPN's Adam Schefter suggested the injury was trending in the wrong direction for Week 2. All sources agree that Davante Adams and Terrance Ferguson are the primary beneficiaries of Nacua's absence, with Adams having already demonstrated his ability to take over the offense.

Why it matters

Puka Nacua is a key player for the Los Angeles Rams' offense, and his absence could significantly impact their performance in the 2026 season. The Rams are chasing a title, and losing their top receiver for multiple games could affect their ability to compete. Additionally, the injury raises questions about the depth of the Rams' receiving corps and the team's ability to adapt to unexpected absences.

What to watch

The Rams will monitor Nacua's progress over the next few days to determine if he can practice and potentially play in Week 3. If Nacua is ruled out, Davante Adams and Terrance Ferguson will likely see increased targets, while the Rams may also lean more on their running backs, Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, to move the ball. The team will also need to manage the health of other injured players, including Alaric Jackson and Colby Parkinson.