LOS ANGELES — Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, who recently suffered a sprained left ankle in Week 6, has expressed optimism about his recovery, stating he feels “fantastic” and is “ready to go” for the upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.
Nacua participated fully in practice on Thursday, marking his first complete session since the injury occurred while he attempted to catch a pass in the end zone during a game against the Baltimore Ravens. Although he was listed as a limited participant in practice on Wednesday, he is now back to his regular training regimen.
“It’s good to be back out on the football field, moving around, getting a good sweat in, putting my feet in the ground,” Nacua commented. “We’ve had a nice Thursday practice, so finally getting to hit somebody feels like it’s been too long for sure, but it felt great to be back out there.”
The 23-year-old receiver missed the Week 7 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London but dedicated the Rams’ bye week to rehabilitating his ankle. Rams head coach Sean McVay indicated earlier this week that he anticipated Nacua would be available for the Sunday game, barring any unforeseen setbacks.
Before his injury, Nacua was leading the NFL in receptions and receiving yards, having set the record for the most catches by a player in the first five games of a season. Entering Week 9, he has accumulated an impressive 54 catches for 616 yards and two touchdowns.
Should Nacua take the field against the Saints, it will be a significant moment as it marks his 35th career game. Notably, his 238 career receptions tie him with Michael Thomas for the most catches recorded by a player in their first 35 NFL games, according to ESPN Research. His ability to bounce back will be crucial for the Rams as they aim to capitalize on his record-setting performance early in the season.