Exploring Rams' depth chart after Puka Nacua's injury: Which playmakers could fill in?

The Los Angeles Rams were back in top form during the 2023-24 season after enduring one of the biggest Super Bowl hangovers. Their struggles initially looked to continue after a 3-6 start, but they went 7-1 after their bye week to return to the playoffs. They came up short in quarterback Matthew Stafford's old home versus Detroit in the wild card.

One of the biggest reasons for this turnaround was rookie wideout Puka Nacua, who was monstrously prolific, setting multiple rookie records en route to becoming an All-Pro and Pro Bowler. But there is a very concerning update on him as he enters his sophomore campaign.

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What happened to Puka Nacua?

On Sunday, reports stated that Nacua sustained a knee injury. While a source called it "not serious," the team is still being cautious and demoting him to "week-to-week." He left practice early that day and was seen with an ice pack on his right knee.

When asked for an update, coach Sean McVay largely declined to give one.

Nacua joins three hurting offensive linemen: tackles Rob Havenstein and Alaric Jackson (both ankle) and guard Jonah Jackson (shoulder) on the injury list. Returning cornerback Darious Williams is also dealing with a sprained hamstring.

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Rams depth chart: Which wide receivers could replace Puka Nacua?

One popular solution to the Rams' Puka Nacua problem is to move Tutu Atwell to his starting spot. According to the team's depth chart, he currently sits behind Super Bowl LVI MVP Cooper Kupp at WR1.

Recently, however, a sleeper candidate emerged to assume the WR2 position: sixth-round rookie Jordan Whittington. The former Texas Longhorn has 141 catches for 1,757 yards and five touchdowns. Yahoo writer Charles Robinson mentioned him in a multi-part series of notes on his X.com account.

And if Whittington is to be asked, he is "an extremely physical receiver with great hands" and route-running, "a selfless player with a high motor that’s always running hot."

In other words, he is projected to not only become a good pass catcher but also a good run blocker. He should be well acquainted with the skillset, having begun his college career as a running back

Another candidate to fill in for Nacua is sophomore Xavier Smith. Smith joined the Rams as a UDFA from Florida A&M and spent his rookie season on the practice squad.