Puka Nacua briefly exited today’s game after landing directly on the ball while a defender came down on his back, a mechanism that often results in a painful sternal contusion or simple “wind-knock” injury. He was taken to the locker room for a chest evaluation, but early signs point toward a short-term issue rather than anything structurally concerning. These types of impacts can be extremely uncomfortable in the moment, yet typically resolve quickly with rest and normalization of breathing.
While Nacua may have been capable of returning, game context played a role. With the Rams holding a comfortable three-score lead, the medical staff and coaching staff appeared inclined to err on the side of caution and he was unlikely to return.
Will Puka Nacua Start in NFL Week 10?
Barring unexpected imaging findings, Nacua’s outlook remains favorable, and his availability should not be significantly impacted moving forward. The Rams’ decision to keep him sidelined today reflects strategic caution rather than serious injury concern. Expect him to start next week.
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