Despite injury, Puka Nacua expected to suit up in Week 1 vs Lions

So who will step up in Nacua's absence?

While I had compiled a list of candidates who were likely to step up in Nacua's absence, I want to clarify why I focused exclusively on Jordan Whittington, Tyler Johnson, and Xavier Smith. You see, in my opinion, the 2024 roles for Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua (when he returns to health), Demarcus Robinson, and Tutu Atwell are already well-established for the upcoming season.

While the workload may be redistributed to absorb additional offensive snaps as player injuries occur, I don't consider any of those four receivers as 'stepping up,' as much as 'rounding out,' their already projected roles. While rookie WR Jordan Whittington is a lock to make the 53-man roster, his role in this offense is undefined. So as he carves out his niche for 2024, He will be stepping up as a player who attracts offensive snaps. And that could be a larger than expected role this season.

Whittington, much like Puka Nacua in 2023, is turning heads with his versatility and efficiency in the Rams offense. Unlike many rookie receivers who show up productively only when the ball is thrown their way, Whittington contributes as much to this offense whether the football is or is not thrown to him.

Is this Deja Vu all over again?

The Rams recently have feasted on late round draft picks stepping up in a huge way as opportunity knocks. in 2023, 2022 NFL Draft Round 5 selected RB Kyren Williams stepped up to look like a Round 1 prospect. And he only need 12 games in 2023 to appear among the NFL's Top-3 running backs.

So too did rookie Puka Nacua, a 2023 NFL Draft Round 5 selected WR, break the NFL's All-Time Rookie Receiving Records last season.

Could 2024 NFL Draft Round 6 selected rookie wide receiver Jordan Whittington make it the Trifecta for the Rams? Some already think so.

Of course, both veteran WRs Tyler Johnson and Xavier Smith continue to be in the race for an increased role in this offense. And there is a lot of football to play before the Rams open on the road to face the Detroit Lions in Week 1. That is a month away.

But rest assured that Puka Nacua will suit up for that one. And that is a huge relief.

Thanks for reading.