Puka Nacua injury concern grows after Sean McVay’s postgame quote

Rams fans are panicking as they await good news on their star wide receiver's injury, which the club's head coach didn't deliver.
Los Angeles Rams v Baltimore Ravens
Los Angeles Rams v Baltimore Ravens | Patrick Smith/GettyImages

Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Puka Nacua had an injury scare in the team's 17-3 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Fans were relieved to see him return to action early in the third quarter, though his typically dominant presence was hardly felt.

However, head coach Sean McVay's postgame presser made it clear Nacua and the Rams aren't getting off scot-free yet. By the sound of it, Los Angeles could very well be without their offensive centerpiece for a date with the Jacksonville Jaguars across the pond.

Sean McVay sends Rams fans into panic with noncommittal Puka Nacua injury update

" ... you think I know all of that stuff right now ..." McVay jokingly told reporters with a smirk when asked about Nacua's availability against Jacksonville.

McVay ostensibly isn't too worried about Nacua's long-term health if he's smiling and having fun with the media about the matter in the immediate aftermath. Yet, the former couldn't confirm that the latter will be ready to suit up when the Rams face the Jaguars in London, England.

It's encouraging to see and hear McVay take a nonchalant and giddy tone when speaking about Nacua. Nevertheless, the downside is that turnaround time may be too quick for the electrifying wideout for the Rams' ensuing contest.

Nacua led the NFL in targets (62), receptions (52), receiving yards (588) and first downs (31) entering Sunday's Week 6 slate. He's been vital to the Rams' success; being without him for any time is concerning and forces them to adjust their game plan.

The Rams would be at an especially significant disadvantage sans Nacua in an international affair versus a stout Jags pass defense. Jacksonville's combination of sack artists who can get to the quarterback and an underrated secondary is for real. His ability to thrive in the short-to-intermediate areas and carve up opponents after the catch are notable neutralizers.

Moreover, McVay mentioned that Nacua is dealing with an ankle issue, not a foot ailment, as initially believed. Whether that changes the severity of the problem remains unclear.

Despite checking back into the Rams' road victory in Baltimore, Nacua operated as a decoy. He finished the match with two catches for 28 scoreless yards on three targets. The 24-year-old was visibly hampered, so how his body responds when the adrenaline wears off will be crucial and worth monitoring.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations