NFL Futures and News: Rams Injury Crisis

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NFL Futures and News

Rams Face Injury Crisis: Puka Nacua and Key Players Sidelined

The Los Angeles Rams are facing a growing list of injuries, starting with wide receiver Puka Nacua, who is set to go on injured reserve with a sprained PCL.

Head coach Sean McVay confirmed that Nacua will miss at least four games as he recovers from the injury, which is an aggravation of one he sustained during training camp. Nacua left Sunday night’s overtime loss to the Detroit Lions in the second quarter after landing on his knee. 

Despite trying to return, he exited by halftime. Nacua had a stellar 2023 season, breaking the rookie receiving record with 105 catches for 1,486 yards and six touchdowns.

Tyler Johnson, Jordan Whittington, and Tutu Atwell are expected to fill in for Nacua during his absence. However, Nacua isn’t the only significant player sidelined. Starting interior offensive lineman Steve Avila will likely miss at least four games with a sprained MCL. Avila, who started every game in 2023, was forced out of Sunday despite his efforts to return to the field. 

The Rams plan to move rookie center Beaux Limmer into the starting role, with Jonah Jackson sliding over to left guard.

Rams Offensive Line Faces Major Setbacks

The Rams’ offensive line has been hit hard by injuries. Left tackle Alaric Jackson is currently serving a two-game suspension, and backup Joe Noteboom is dealing with a lateral ankle sprain, leaving his status as week-to-week.

To make matters worse, correct tackle Rob Havenstein is also nursing an ankle injury, and his return is uncertain. The Rams are still deciding who will start at left tackle against the Arizona Cardinals this weekend, with McVay stating the team is evaluating options daily.

The team’s injury troubles extend beyond the offensive line. Cornerback Cobie Durant is day-to-day with a toe injury, and he has been filling in for starting cornerback Darious Williams, who is on injured reserve with a hamstring issue.

The constant personnel changes have forced McVay to alter the Rams’ game plans, especially when protecting the quarterback.

Adjustments in Game Plan and Player Rotations

The Rams leaned more heavily on experienced pass blockers, such as running backs Kyren Williams and Ronnie Rivers and tight end Colby Parkinson. Rookie running back Blake Corum saw no offensive snaps as McVay opted for more experienced players to adjust to the evolving game situation.

Here’s the complete list of Rams injuries heading into Week 2:

• Puka Nacua (WR): Sprained PCL, set to miss at least four games
• Steve Avila (OL): Sprained MCL, out at least four games
• Joe Noteboom (OL): Lateral ankle sprain, week-to-week
• Rob Havenstein (OL): Ankle injury, status uncertain
• Kevin Dotson (OL): Lateral ankle sprain, day-to-day
• Cobie Durant (CB): Toe injury, day-to-day
• Darious Williams (CB): On injured reserve with a hamstring injury

These injuries will undoubtedly affect the Rams’ performance and NFL Futures for the upcoming weeks as they face the challenge of filling multiple vital roles.