As players return to LA Rams roster, Vikings fans await this star's return

The LA Rams certainly are riding a wave of positive news right now. Not only is this team coming off a desperately needed victory in Week 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders, but the team is starting to reap the benefits of players healing up and returning from injuries. And that is very good news for a struggling offense that has yet to resemble the high-scoring juggernaut hoped for at the start of the 2024 NFL season.

The first bit of positive news has been building all week, as the Rams indicated that Cooper Kupp would suit up and play in Week 8. Of course, that seemed to run counter to the swirling NFL rumors that name Kupp as the topic of trade talks that the Rams are open to having. But upon further inspection, the willingness to play Kupp in a nationally-televised game is an ideal marketing strategy, In this way, the team showcases Kupp's versatility and proficiency will be center stage, and any questions about his health will be silenced by good outing.

But the Rams are also welcoming back wide receiver Puka Nacua, a vital weapon in this offense. Nacua reinjured his knee in Week 1, and has been sideline ever since. But he is suiting up for Week 8, and not a moment too soon. The Rams need as much offense as possible to have any hopes of emerging with a win from this game.

Vikings fans are still waiting for their good news

The Minnesota Vikings fans have been patiently awaiting the return of starting tight end T.J. Hockenson. Hockenson has been out for nearly a year, and his return was eagerly anticipated when he was elevated to IR/Designated to return.

But pregame reports indicate that his status has been downgraded from questionable to out. And that means that he will not be suiting up to face the Rams.

While the Rams' defense has stiffened recently, the absence of Hockenson in Week 8 is certainly good news. The Vikings have been winning without him, and the secondary, while improving, is not yet to a point where they can be counted on to play consistently good pass coverage.

Perhaps if they do well in Week 8, they will more trustworthy.

As always, thanks for reading.

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