What happened: Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay announced that the team expects to place wide receiver Puka Nacua on injured reserve. Nacua suffered MCL and PCL sprains along with turf toe during Sunday's 20-13 victory over the Washington Commanders. The roster designation mandates a minimum absence of four games.
Why it matters: Nacua's injury sidelines the primary target for an offense currently on a three-game winning streak. At 5-4, Los Angeles holds the ninth seed in a crowded NFC playoff race. Navigating the upcoming month without their top playmaker will test the roster's receiving depth.
By the numbers: Nacua has caught 70 passes for 715 yards and 4 touchdowns in 2026 through 7 games. The Rams sit at 5-4 through 9 games in 2026, holding the No. 9 seed in the NFC.
What to watch: The Rams will formally submit the transaction ahead of their next regular-season matchup. Medical personnel will evaluate Nacua's recovery progression across the four-week window.