The Los Angeles Rams are getting Pro Bowl wide receiver Cooper Kupp back for their Thursday night matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. However, Kupp may not be the only star wide receiver returning.
Puka Nacua, who’s currently on injured reserve but had his practice window opened this week, could also return on Thursday night in a huge game for the Rams. Multiple NFL insiders discussed the team’s optimism that Nacua could return on Thursday.
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“My understanding is there is now optimism that Puka Nacua could play tonight,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said Thursday morning. “He’s not gonna go out there probably and play 70 snaps. He’s only had one real practice. But he’s had a good week, they put him through some things yesterday. I would imagine they’ll put him through some more things today. If all goes well, it seems like we’re trending towards Puka Nacua at least being active for the Rams tonight.”
“I think Puka’s got a real good shot to play tonight,” Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer said on the Rich Eisen Show Thursday morning. “Yeah, I think he’ll play tonight.”
Nacua is currently listed as questionable to play, and didn’t start practicing until this week. However, he’s looked good in practice, and the Rams could activate him for a huge Thursday night matchup against the 5-1 Vikings.
DETROIT, MI – SEPTEMBER 08: Puka Nacua #17 of the Los Angeles Rams warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on September 8, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Nacua could potentially return Thursday night.
Cooper Neill/Getty Images
Nacua aggravated a knee injury in Week 1 that immediately put him on IR. A week later, Kupp hurt his ankle, robbing the Rams of their top two wide receiving weapons.
The Rams have started the year 2-4, but are coming off a big win against the Las Vegas Raiders. They already have Kupp returning on Thursday night, but the addition of Nacua would add another dimension to the Rams offense.
The Rams are taking on the Vikings on Thursday night, who have one of the league’s top defense this season. The Vikings defense has allowed just 17.8 points per game this season, which ranks sixth in the NFL.
Matthew Stafford and the Rams will have their hands full no matter what on Thursday night. However, if both Kupp and Nacua are able to suit up, the Rams will be in a much better position to complete the Thursday night upset.
For more NFL news, and the latest on Nacua ahead of Thursday night, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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