Rams Place Puka Nacua on IR Following Week 9 Knee Injury

The Los Angeles Rams have officially placed wide receiver Puka Nacua on injured reserve following a series of lower-body injuries sustained in their Week 9 victory over the Washington Commanders. Head coach Sean McVay announced the decision on Monday, confirming that the standout playmaker is dealing with an MCL and PCL sprain in addition to a turf toe injury.

Nacua underwent an MRI on Monday to evaluate the extent of the damage. While the diagnostic imaging reportedly indicated that the receiver did not suffer a torn ACL, the combination of multiple ligament sprains and the toe condition will sideline him for an extended period. According to ESPN reports, the injury occurred during the Rams' final offensive snap in the win against Washington.

The 25-year-old receiver has been a vital component of the Rams' offense during the 2026 season. In seven appearances this year, the former BYU fifth-round pick has recorded 70 receptions for 715 yards and four touchdowns. Nacua is currently in the final stages of a four-year, $4.1 million contract that runs through 2026, having earned a base salary of $1.03 million in 2025.

What to watch next: The Rams must now look to their depth chart to replace Nacua's production as they prepare for the remainder of the season without their leading receiver.