Puka Nacua injury forces uncomfortable Matthew Stafford-Davante Adams connection

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has been ruled out for Week 7. That's bad news for the star of the team, but it carries significant repercussions across the entire offense. Without Nacua, the success or failure of the aerial assault falls to quarterback Matthew Stafford's ability to connect with veteran wide receiver Davante Adams.

Unfortunately, that connection has struggled so far in 2025.

While both Stafford and Adams are seasoned veterans, they are playing for the same team for the first time this season. Normally, veterans know how to work out their communication and chemistry in training camp. But Stafford's back injury prevented the two from building the necessary rapport and trust that every quarterback-wide receiver tandem needs.

Now, it's coming back to haunt them.

The fallout now is on full display. The 37-year-old's completion rate plummets to 47.3 percent when targeting Adams. And that is not going to get it done against a Jacksonville Jaguars defense that specializes in turnovers.

Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams must connect in Week 7... somehow

While LA has multiple options for the Week 7 clash with the Jags, nobody will be fooled into thinking Adams is not a key component of the offensive game plan. It's only logical, as Adams has been one of the Rams' most prolific scorers.

Of their wide receivers, the 32-year-old All-Pro's 15.2 yards-per-catch average trails just Tutu Atwell (41.0 YPC) in terms of production per reception. The offense has typically used Adams as the decoy to clear out zones for Nacua to slip into for his catches. Could the fix simply be to swap roles and allow Adams to find soft coverage spots?

It won't be that easy.

From his reputation alone, the new Rams receiver will draw the most talented cornerback in coverage. Without pre-snap motions, that will likely dictate who is targeted on pass plays.

Still, the offense is creative. Los Angeles has many weapons. And the veteran duo has undoubtedly put in the time and effort to work out the bugs. While its unreasonable to expect Adams to haul in everything thrown his way in Week 7, any improvement to his catch rate would be welcome.

After all, Nacua is out. Somebody has to step up.

As always, thanks for reading.