NFL

Los Angeles Rams optimistic Puka Nacua will return for Raiders clash

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 25, 2026, 17:33 IST

The Los Angeles Rams are hopeful that star wide receiver Puka Nacua will be available for Sunday's game against the Las Vegas Raiders after positive results from a recent calf injury assessment.

Los Angeles Rams optimistic Puka Nacua will return for Raiders clash

The Los Angeles Rams are trending toward having star wide receiver Puka Nacua back in the lineup for Sunday’s matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. According to reports, the team remains optimistic about his availability, provided the player experiences no last-minute setbacks during his final preparations.

Nacua, who has been officially listed as questionable for the contest, reportedly showed signs of improvement on Saturday. This positive development follows a concerning incident earlier in the week that forced the receiver to miss practice on Friday. The team's confidence in his return stems from a medical evaluation conducted on Thursday, where an MRI on his calf yielded results that were more encouraging than the organization initially anticipated.

Injury recovery and homecoming context

Head coach Sean McVay addressed the media regarding the nature of the injury, noting that there was no singular moment of impact or specific play that caused the issue. Instead, McVay explained that Nacua simply felt a lack of power and explosion in his movement, prompting the team to exercise caution. The 25-year-old has already navigated health challenges this season, having previously missed two games last month due to a core muscle injury.

For Nacua, Sunday’s game carries additional personal significance. Born in Las Vegas, the receiver spent the first 11 years of his life in the city before relocating to Utah in 2012. His potential return comes at a critical juncture for the Rams' offense, which is currently managing various personnel adjustments. The team is navigating a period without wide receiver Davante Adams, who is sidelined for six to 10 weeks following a hamstring injury sustained in Week 6.

Through four appearances this season, Nacua has been a focal point of the passing attack, recording 37 receptions for 417 yards. As the Rams prepare for the road trip to face the Raiders, the coaching staff will continue to monitor his status closely to ensure he is physically prepared for the demands of the game.