Rams' Puka Nacua out for Monday Night Football, Davante Adams to assume larger role
Wide receiver Puka Nacua was ruled inactive for the Rams' Monday night game against the New York Giants due to hip and groin tightness, prompting the team to lean on Davante Adams and other backs.
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua was listed as inactive for the Monday Night Football contest against the New York Giants at SoFi Stadium after developing hip and groin tightness in practice late last week, coach Sean McVay said. The injury removes a primary target for quarterback Matthew Stafford as the Rams seek to avoid a 0-2 start following a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1, where Nacua recorded five catches for 74 yards. With backup Jordan Whittington also dealing with a quad injury, the Rams will look to veteran Davante Adams to draw defensive attention while younger receivers Tutu Atwell and Xavier Smith receive expanded responsibilities. The defense receives a boost from the return of defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who is expected to play a limited rotational role as he works back into game shape.
"We want to be cautious with Puka and make sure he's fully healthy before he returns," McVay added. "Davante will step up and help keep our offense balanced," the team’s spokesperson said.