With the Los Angeles Rams defeating the Baltimore Ravens, they entered a three-way tie at the top of the NFC West. The San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks share a 4-2 record with the Rams heading into Week 7. However, in the third quarter, wide receiver Puka Nacua went up for a jump ball in the end zone with Marlon Humphrey and landed awkwardly on his left leg. Nacua didn’t return to the game.
What Are Rams’ Options Without Puka Nacua?
If Nacua is forced to miss extended time, they have a solid backup option in Davante Adams. However, the wideout options behind Adams are largely unproven and have a steep talent dropoff. That said, they would certainly need to explore the trade market.
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When the coach can’t clear the air immediately on an injury, it leaves the door open for worry for those close to the organization and uncertainty in the locker room. Even if Nacua is only out for a couple of weeks, the Rams could be smart to explore improving their third wide receiver spot, as they rely heavily on their passing game.
The Rams have $11.5 million in cap space, which is 19th in the NFL, and could allow them to explore depth at the position. Some names that come to mind are Chris Olave of the New Orleans Saints and Jakobi Meyers of the Las Vegas Raiders. While they are not performing quite at the level of Nacua, it would significantly upgrade them over what they have behind Nacua and Adams.
What Puka Nacua Means to the Rams
Puka Nacua has been incredible since he stepped onto the field for the Los Angeles Rams. In the 2023-24 season, he broke the rookie records for receptions over a season (105), in a game (15) and receiving yards (1,486). Now, he is the undoubted top option for the Rams, and it is hard to see where they would be without him.
Even though he reached these incredible marks in his first season, he took his game to another level this season. According to PFSN NFL WRi Rankings, Nacua ranks as the top receiver in the NFL, with a 98.9 score and an A+ grade. This type of production will not be easy to replace, even if he missed just a single game, but I expect the Rams to be aggressive and make a move in quick order to prepare for their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London next weekend.
