When is Puka Nacua expected to return from injury? Everything we know about Rams WR's status

Puka Nacua had a phenomenal rookie season with the Los Angeles Rams in 2023. Nacua was a front-runner for the Offensive Rookie of the Year and was a key contributor to the Rams' postseason push.

However, 2024 hasn't been so kind to Nacua. The speedy wide receiver suffered a knee injury in the Rams' 26-20 loss against the Detroit Lions in Week 1. Let's take a look at when Nacua could be available for action.

When could Puka Nacua return from injury?

Puka Nacua was placed on IR after the Rams' game against the Detroit Lions. Hence, the earliest possible return date for Nacua will be Week 7, since the Rams have a bye in Week 6. The Rams play the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7.

However, Ian Rapoport reported that Nacua could potentially be out until Week 10 versus the Miami Dolphins. Dr. Jesse Morse of The Injury Expertz sees Nacua leaning toward a Week 8 return.

The Los Angeles Rams would surely love to have Nacua back, especially with fellow starting wide receiver Cooper Kupp dealing with injury issues of his own.

Update on Puka Nacua's injury

As per a recent update, however, Nacua will apparently be out for another month.

Who will replace Puka Nacua?

Puka Nacua started every game of his rookie season, putting up a stat line of 105 receptions, 1,486 yards and six TDs. The BYU product broke the NFL rookie record for most catches, most receiving yards, most receptions in a game (15) and most receiving yards in a playoff game (181). He earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro nods for his efforts.

In the meantime, Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell will be tasked with filling the void left by Nacua for the next few weeks. Robinson joined the Rams ahead of the 2023 season. He played in all but one game during the regular season, amassing 26 catches, 371 receiving yards and four touchdowns. He re-signed a deal to keep him on the Rams' roster for the 2024 season.

Atwell has spent his entire professional career with the Rams. The Louisville product started out as a return specialist before finding his role as a pass catcher. In 2023, he had 39 catches, 483 receiving yards and three touchdowns.