NFL

Rams Expect Puka Nacua and Alaric Jackson to Feature in Season Opener Against 49ers

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 7, 2026, 04:37 IST

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed he expects wide receiver Puka Nacua and left tackle Alaric Jackson to play in Thursday's season opener against the San Francisco 49ers despite ongoing legal matters.

Rams Expect Puka Nacua and Alaric Jackson to Feature in Season Opener Against 49ers

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has confirmed that the team anticipates both wide receiver Puka Nacua and left tackle Alaric Jackson will be available for Thursday's season-opening clash against the San Francisco 49ers. Despite both players currently navigating ongoing legal situations, McVay indicated on Sunday that he has received no information to suggest they will be sidelined for the contest.

When asked directly if the duo would be cleared to take the field against the 49ers, McVay responded affirmatively, stating that he had not heard anything to the contrary. While both players remain under review by the NFL, reports from late August confirmed that neither individual was placed on the commissioner's exempt list at that time.

Legal Context and Team Preparation

The legal matters involving the two players stem from separate incidents earlier this year. Puka Nacua was named in a lawsuit filed in March by a woman in Los Angeles, who alleged that the receiver made an unprovoked antisemitic statement toward her and subsequently bit her on the shoulder. Meanwhile, Alaric Jackson was arrested in June on a domestic violence charge. Following the arrest, Jackson was not charged with a felony, and his case was referred to the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office in July for a pre-filing diversion program, which serves as an alternative to misdemeanor criminal prosecution.

Throughout the training camp period, McVay has maintained that the organization is actively communicating with both the league and the legal system to monitor the developments. The coach has consistently emphasized the need to gather all necessary information while managing the team's roster preparations for the start of the season.

Updates on Key Personnel

Beyond the status of Nacua and Jackson, the Rams are managing the return of several high-profile players. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who recently emerged from a two-season retirement, is set to participate in practice this Sunday. McVay noted that the team is evaluating Donald's status on a day-to-day basis and plans to provide further updates on his availability later in the week.

Additionally, reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett is expected to return to the practice field on Sunday. Garrett has been limited for the majority of training camp due to persistent knee soreness. McVay is scheduled to provide comprehensive injury reports and further roster updates on Tuesday as the team finalizes its preparations for the upcoming matchup against San Francisco.