The Los Angeles Rams have confirmed staggered return timelines for their two injured star wide receivers, Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, as the team navigates a critical stretch of the season.
Adams to return Week 12; Nacua targeted for Week 14
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay announced on Wednesday that Davante Adams is expected to return from injured reserve after the team’s Week 12 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Adams, who suffered a ruptured hamstring tendon in Week 7, must complete a minimum four-game stint on injured reserve. The Rams’ Week 11 bye does not count toward this requirement, meaning Adams will be eligible to return in Week 12.
Meanwhile, Puka Nacua, who injured his MCL, PCL, and turf toe in Week 9, is not expected back until Week 14 or Week 15, according to multiple reports. The Rams have opted not to place Nacua on injured reserve despite the severity of his injuries, citing roster mechanics. This decision keeps Nacua off the IR timeline, which would have required him to miss at least four games, including the Week 11 bye, delaying his return until Week 15.
Rams' offense faces thin WR corps
With both Adams and Nacua sidelined, the Rams are relying on a depleted wide receiver group including Konata Mumpfield, Tutu Atwell, CJ Daniels, and Xavier Smith. In Week 9, Mumpfield and Atwell combined for just four catches and 36 yards, while Nacua accounted for 14 catches and 150 yards. Daniels was not targeted in the game.
The Rams, currently 5-4 and in playoff contention, have not added a receiver at the NFL trade deadline, citing expectations that both Adams and Nacua will return this season. The team explored a potential trade for Los Angeles Chargers receiver Ladd McConkey but ultimately decided against it, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Injury status and roster implications
Adams, a six-time Pro Bowler with 121 career touchdowns, has recorded 30 catches for 480 yards and four touchdowns in six games this season. Nacua, a two-time Pro Bowler, has 70 catches for 715 yards and four touchdowns in seven games.
The Rams’ decision to keep Nacua off injured reserve reflects a strategic gamble to potentially accelerate his return. However, the team’s wide receiver depth remains a significant concern as they face a competitive NFC West, where the San Francisco 49ers (6-1) and Seattle Seahawks (5-4) lead the division.
The Rams’ next game is a Week 10 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals at 4:05 p.m. ET on Sunday.