Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) reacts after making a catch against the San Francisco 49ers in the first half at Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Los Angeles Rams are set to take on the New York Giants on “Monday Night Football” to cap off Week 2. However, L.A. is going to have to play without superstar wideout Puka Nacua after officially revealing his status for the contest.
The Rams announced that the 25-year-old wide receiver is officially out for the game against the Giants. Quarterback Matthew Stafford will have to rely on Davante Adams on Monday night.
“WR Puka Nacua (hip) is OUT for Rams vs. Giants tonight, the team says,” the report claimed.
Nacua sustained the hip/groin injury during the week leading up to the matchup against New York. It's said the fourth-year veteran initially experienced soreness in his hip on Thursday, and it made him a true game-time decision. In the end, the situation is serious enough that Nacua needs at least one game off to recover.
Adams will be the likely favorite target with the two-time Pro Bowler out of the picture. Wide receiver Jordan Whittington was deemed doubtful leading up to Monday's matchup and was also ruled out. Guys like Konata Mumpfield, Tutu Atwell, Xavier Sith, and CJ Daniels will have a chance to step up for the Rams.
This also opens the door for one of the tight ends to play a bigger role than usual. One of Colby Parkinson, Tyler Higbee, or Terrance Ferguson could be a surprise target in L.A.'s Week 2 contest.
Puka Nacua's absence will not go unnoticed against the Giants. Although Week 1 resulted in a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the former fifth-round pick was peppered throughout the contest. He finished the first game of the campaign with nine targets, resulting in five receptions for 74 yards.