Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua left Sunday’s overtime loss to the Detroit Lions due to a knee injury. The injury occurred during the first half of the Rams’ 26-20 loss at Ford Field. After initially sustaining the injury, Nacua briefly returned to the game, but soon exited again and met with the team’s medical staff, told NFL.
Nacua, 23, walked on the sideline before being carted off the field. After halftime, the Rams announced that Nacua would not return to the game.
Brad Galli tweeted about Nacua’s status during the game, sharing, “Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has been ruled out for the rest of the game with a knee injury.”
At halftime, the Rams trailed 10-3, with the Lions extending their lead to 17-3. However, the Rams rallied to force overtime. Ultimately, Detroit sealed the game with a one-yard touchdown run by Lions running back David Montgomery during their first overtime possession.
Nacua’s injury leaves the Rams uncertain, as further details have not yet been released. The potential loss of the young wide receiver could be a significant blow to Los Angeles, particularly given his breakout 2023 season.
A fifth-round pick out of BYU, Nacua became a surprise star for the Rams in his rookie year, finishing the season with 105 catches, 1,486 yards, and six touchdowns, told SportsNet. His performance earned him Pro Bowl honors, solidifying his place as the Rams’ top receiving option.
Entering the 2024 season, Nacua was part of a highly anticipated duo with Cooper Kupp, who was returning healthy after two injury-plagued seasons. Together, they were expected to lead the Rams’ receiving corps as the team aimed for a strong playoff run. If Nacua’s injury proves to be long-term, it could derail the Rams’ offensive plans for the season as they seek their fourth playoff appearance in five years.