Puka Nacua Expected to Return to Rams Practice Next Week After Psoas Injury

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is sidelined with psoas soreness but is projected to rejoin team drills next week.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is scheduled to return to practice next week following a period of absence due to soreness in his psoas. Coach Sean McVay confirmed the timeline on Thursday, August 13, 2026, noting that the team is prioritizing a cautious approach with the sophomore standout. Nacua originally exited a joint practice session against the Dallas Cowboys on Tuesday after sustaining the groin-related injury. During Thursday’s team activities, the receiver was restricted to working off to the side under the supervision of the Rams' training staff.

Psoas Soreness Sidelines Puka Nacua

McVay described the current status of the wideout as "doing good," clarifying that the decision to keep him out of full participation is a strategic move to ensure long-term health. The psoas discomfort surfaced immediately following the Tuesday drills with Dallas. The Rams' medical team has monitored his progress since he left that session, leading to his individualized training regimen during the most recent practice window. "We're just being smart with him," McVay stated while addressing the media in Los Angeles. The expectation remains that Nacua will be "ready to go" by the time the next week of preparation commences.

Myles Garrett Knee Injury Status

In addition to the update on Nacua, defensive end Myles Garrett is also managing a physical setback. Garrett worked away from the main group on Thursday as he deals with soreness in his knee. According to McVay, the defensive end reported feeling "about 85%" healthy during a conversation on Tuesday. The coaching staff is currently focused on the "return to performance" phase of his recovery, aiming to understand his physical limits as he works back toward full participation. McVay noted that Garrett is making positive strides, though the team will not clear him for full duties until he reaches 100% health.

Preparation for Week 1 in Australia

The Rams have established a specific timeline for Garrett’s recovery, aiming for the defensive end to peak by the time the NFL season begins. The team is scheduled to start their Week 1 campaign in Australia. McVay emphasized that the current management of both Nacua and Garrett is designed to ensure they are at full strength for the international opener. While Garrett continues his rehabilitation on the side, the coach expressed confidence in the player's trajectory, stating that he is "feeling good" despite the current limitations.

Nacua’s absence from the main field on Thursday marks a temporary pause in his preparation following his exit from the Cowboys joint practice. The Rams continue to evaluate the wide receiver's groin area daily to ensure no further irritation occurs before his projected re-entry into team drills. The training staff's involvement remains a central component of the recovery process for both the offensive and defensive starters as the Los Angeles roster prepares for its travel schedule and the upcoming regular season start.