All signs suggest Puka Nacua, Alaric Jackson will play for Rams in Week 1

The NFL has yet to discipline either Puka Nacua or Alaric Jackson for offseason incidents that led many to believe could result in suspensions. Instead, it sounds like the Los Angeles Rams will have both available in Week 1 against the 49ers, though nothing has been confirmed.

NFL insider Adam Schefter believes that will be the case for Nacua, leaving open the possibility that the star receiver will escape any form of discipline this season. 

That the league has yet to announce anything on either Nacua or Jackson suggests that, if punishment is coming, it will be after the season opener. To say the least, that's rather surprising. 

Rams expect both Nacua and Jackson to be available

It seemed almost a foregone conclusion that Jackson, in particular, would be suspended to start the year. Yet suspensions for other players came and went without impacting the Rams. Neither Nacua nor Jackson has landed on the NFL's exempt list, either, which would pay them their salaries but prevent them from playing. 

Head coach Sean McVay said he expects both available. Nacua also dealt with a groin injury that caused him to miss several weeks of training camp. He has since returned to practice. Jackson missed time this summer due to routine treatment for his blood clot condition, something he has dealt with in the past.

Whatever the reason no penalties have yet been issued, Jackson suiting up would keep veteran David Quessenberry on the bench, after all, resolving one of the Rams' more significant early-season roster questions in the case that Jackson is absent. Tackle depth is of particular concern with rookie Keagen Trost on injured reserve with a hamstring strain. 

Nacua's status will reshape LA's entire strategy. Without him, the Rams will lean into tight ends and the run game while featuring Davante Adams as the top receiving target. 

If Nacua plays, the offense will be far more explosive, though McVay has proven he can throttle a defense even without his top non-quarterback playmaker. Los Angeles destroyed Jacksonville 35-7 when Nacua missed last season's Week 7 affair in London. 

Of course, the NFL is under no obligation to issue suspensions according to a deadline. Rams fans could still wake up on Wednesday, perhaps even the morning of kickoff, to find out one or both are suddenly unavailable. Based on McVay's expectations, however, it sounds as if any repercussions will occur down the road. 

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