Rams List Puka Nacua Doubtful for Sunday Night Game vs Broncos

The Los Angeles Rams have listed wide receiver Puka Nacua as doubtful to play in their Week 3 matchup against the Denver Broncos, citing a hip injury that coach Sean McVay has characterized as a groin issue. Nacua did not participate in practice during the week and is currently on his final year of a rookie contract valued at $5.767 million per season.

McVay stated the team would err on the side of caution regarding Nacua's health, noting that while he could potentially return as soon as next week if no setbacks occur, he has not yet felt like playing with his previous explosiveness due to the ailment. This is Nacua's second consecutive missed game; he was sidelined for six games in 2024 and one in 2025.

The injury decision comes amidst speculation that a lack of financial security beyond this year contributes to Nacua avoiding aggravating his condition, as he seeks both recovery time and the performance needed to justify future contract negotiations. While the team does not believe surgery is necessary at this moment, it remains on the table if needed.

With Nacua potentially unavailable, the Rams will rely more heavily on other wide receivers including Jordan Whittington, Xavier Smith, Konata Mumpfield, and Tutu Atwell, as well as tight ends like Terrance Ferguson. The team is currently 3-4 in three-plus seasons when Nacua does not play.