Puka Nacua Faces Multi-Week Absence as Rams Injury Report Expands
The Rams' star receiver is out for several weeks, while key players across the NFL miss practice ahead of Week 10.
By Grace Almasi ·
Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is expected to miss multiple games following a knee injury sustained in Week 9. The team has not yet officially placed him on injured reserve, but his absence marks a major loss for Los Angeles' passing attack. This development extends a pattern of physical setbacks that has plagued the roster throughout the season.
Coach Sean McVay indicated optimism regarding the return of cornerback Trent McDuffie, who missed the previous week with a back issue. McDuffie practiced Wednesday, signaling a potential return to the lineup. However, the Rams also missed tight end Terrance Ferguson, offensive lineman Steve Avila, and safety Kam Curl during that session.
Quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert both avoided major damage in their recent outings, though their statuses warrant monitoring. Mahomes, who played through an elbow injury against the Jets, participated fully in practice on Wednesday. Herbert, dealing with a hand or finger issue, has an additional day to recover before the Chargers face the Ravens on Monday night.
The New England Patriots lost running back Rhamondre Stevenson to a knee injury suffered Sunday. Stevenson did not practice Wednesday and is expected to sit out the upcoming week. Wide receiver A.J. Brown, limited by ankle and knee issues, has played in only three games this season. He has not taken the field since Week 7.
The Cleveland Browns will start quarterback Deshaun Watson, who cleared concussion protocol last week but did not play. Watson was absent from the injury report on Wednesday. The team also missed center Elgton Jenkins and safety Ronnie Hickman, both of whom have played through previous ailments this year.
The Carolina Panthers welcomed several players back to full participation, including edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and guard Damien Lewis. Both returned to the field after missing recent games with hamstring and knee injuries, respectively. This return provides depth for a defense that has been tested by injuries all season.
Across the league, the initial injury reports for Week 10 reflect a mix of short-term setbacks and long-term absences. Teams are managing rosters carefully as they navigate the mid-season stretch, balancing current games with long-term health considerations.
