The Los Angeles Rams are one of the biggest stories of the 2026 NFL season through three games, and not necessarily for good reasons. In particular, Puka Nacua‘s injury status has been among the many negatives.
But head coach Sean McVay and the Rams could finally be receiving some good news regarding their star wide receiver. Nacua has appeared in just one game this season—a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the opener.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, McVay said he believes the 2025 NFL All-Pro will return to the field in Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Nacua has battled hip and groin injuries that have kept him out of back-to-back games.
Meanwhile, the Rams could certainly use a boost in their passing attack to help out Matthew Stafford. Davante Adams has become the focal point in recent weeks, posting 332 yards and two touchdowns in Nacua’s absence.
MORE: Jalen Hurts becoming more concerning issue for Eagles
Poised for Week 4 NFL comeback
The Rams likely didn’t expect to be 1-2 after three games, but they now find themselves in a tough spot. McVay absolutely needs Nacua to stretch the field for the offense to operate at a high level.
Last season, the former fifth-round pick recorded more than 1,700 receiving yards and scored 11 touchdowns. He has proven to be one of the most dangerous wideouts in the NFL since breaking onto the scene in 2023.
The Rams have desperately missed Nacua in recent weeks against the New York Giants and Denver Broncos.
Perhaps Los Angeles will be cautious with Nacua’s usage, though, considering the lingering nature of his injury. It has been nearly two weeks since the 25-year-old’s last practice, which gives Nacua two more days to train before the next matchup.
MORE: Bold predictions for Week 4 of 2026 NFL season
The Rams travel to Lincoln Financial Field to face Jalen Hurts and the Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 4 (1 p.m. ET on Fox).
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —