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Puka Nacua injury update
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Rams receiver Puka Nacua returned to practice Sunday after a psoas injury. He's expected to play in the season opener against the 49ers in Australia.
Background
Nacua suffered a psoas injury during an Aug. 11 joint practice with the Cowboys, sidelining him for several weeks. He returned to practice on Sunday, and coach Sean McVay says he's making good progress. The Rams open their season against the 49ers in Melbourne on Sept. 10.
How it unfolded
- Aug 11, 2026Nacua exited early from a joint practice with the Cowboys due to a psoas injury.
- Aug 31, 2026Nacua returned to practice with the Rams after missing several weeks.
- Sep 4, 2026Coach Sean McVay said Nacua is making 'good progress' and expects the team to travel to Australia for the opener.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Coach Sean McVay says Nacua is making good progress and the team expects him to be ready for Week 1.
- Analysts
- ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports Nacua has been back in stride this week with no setbacks, and he's expected to suit up for the opener.
- Caution
- Nacua's injury and legal issues have raised questions about his availability, but the Rams have not expressed public concern.
Still unverified
Nacua is involved in a civil lawsuit after a woman alleged he bit her; this is unconfirmed and not related to his injury.