The Los Angeles Rams are facing a frustrating setback after wide receiver Puka Nacua went down with an ankle sprain during their Week 6 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the league’s leading receiver is expected to miss some time following the injury.
Nacua was hauling in passes all afternoon before coming down awkwardly while trying to secure a touchdown in the second quarter. The Rams initially listed him as questionable with a foot injury, and though he returned briefly in the second half, he didn’t record any stats while playing limited snaps.
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The timing adds another layer of complication for Los Angeles. The Rams travel to London in Week 7 to face the Jacksonville Jaguars before entering their bye week, which should give them time to assess his recovery ahead of their November 2 matchup with the New Orleans Saints.
However, Rapoport’s latest update paints a clearer picture of what to expect.
“Rams WR Puka Nacua, the NFL‘s leader in catches, suffered an ankle sprain that will likely cause him to miss time, per me and Mike Garafolo. It would make sense for Nacua to be out next week against the Jaguars, then LAR has a bye to regroup and assess,” Rapoport wrote.
Through the first five games of 2025, Nacua’s 52 receptions set a new NFL record. He’s continued that pace, currently leading the league with 54 catches and 616 yards. Only Seattle Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba sits ahead of him in yardage with 696.
Malaki Starks tackles Puka Nacua
Baltimore Ravens safety Malaki Starks (24) tackles Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) during the second quarter of the game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images
Despite battling knee issues that sidelined him for six games last season, he still managed 79 catches for 990 yards and three scores.
Now Los Angeles is sitting at 4-2 alongside the San Francisco 49ers and Seahawks in a tight NFC West race. The Rams know staying healthy down the stretch will be vital if they want to stay competitive in what’s shaping up to be a dogfight out West.
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