Puka Nacua Injury Update: Knee Injury, ACL Concerns, Latest News and Stats Today

Puka Nacua has become a major injury concern for the Los Angeles Rams after suffering a knee injury during the team’s Week 9 victory over the Washington Commanders on November 8, 2026. The star wide receiver went down on the final offensive play of the game, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming NFL matchup.

The biggest concern among Rams fans is whether Nacua suffered a torn ACL. However, the initial reports indicate that the team does not believe the injury involves a torn ACL. He is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday, November 9, to determine the full extent of the damage.

Nacua’s injury comes at an important stage of the season. He has been one of Matthew Stafford’s most reliable offensive weapons and delivered another outstanding performance against Washington before leaving the game with a knee problem.

What Happened to Puka Nacua?

Puka Nacua injured his knee during the final offensive snap of the Rams’ 20-13 victory over the Washington Commanders.

With approximately 1:44 remaining in the fourth quarter, Nacua received a handoff from quarterback Matthew Stafford on a third-and-11 play. He gained five yards before taking a hard hit from Washington defenders Jeremy Reaves and Sonny Styles.

Although Nacua briefly went down, he managed to get back up and walk off the field. However, the injury required further medical evaluation.

According to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Nacua is scheduled for an MRI to establish the severity of the knee injury.

The Rams are now waiting for the imaging results before making a decision about his playing status.

Puka Nacua Knee Injury Update: Is He Playing Today?

As of November 9, 2026, Nacua’s knee injury remains under evaluation.

The Rams have not established a confirmed recovery timeline. His MRI is expected to provide more information about the injury and whether he will need to miss upcoming games.

For now, his availability for the next matchup against the Arizona Cardinals is uncertain.

The timing is particularly challenging for Los Angeles because the team is trying to maintain its momentum after winning three consecutive games.

Nacua’s health will be an important factor in the Rams’ offensive plans. If he cannot play, Matthew Stafford could have fewer reliable receiving options.

Did Puka Nacua Tear His ACL?

One of the biggest questions surrounding the injury is whether Nacua suffered an ACL tear.

The initial reports indicate that the Rams do not believe he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This is encouraging news, although it does not completely rule out a significant knee injury.

An MRI is necessary to identify the affected structures and determine the extent of the damage.

A knee injury can involve several different structures, including ligaments, cartilage and surrounding soft tissue. Therefore, the absence of an initial ACL concern does not automatically mean Nacua will return immediately.

Until the MRI results and an official team update become available, his exact diagnosis remains unconfirmed.

Puka Nacua Injury History

Nacua has dealt with injury concerns during the 2026 NFL season.

He previously missed time because of a hip injury. Despite those difficulties, he has continued to produce impressive numbers whenever available.

His latest knee problem is another concern for the Rams, particularly because he plays such an important role in their passing attack.

Los Angeles will likely take a cautious approach rather than risk making the injury worse by rushing him back.

Puka Nacua Stats Today Against Commanders

Despite suffering the injury late in the game, Nacua delivered one of his strongest performances of the season against Washington.

His receiving production helped Los Angeles secure a 20-13 victory.

Puka Nacua’s Week 9 statistics:

Nacua also scored the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter, giving the Rams an important advantage.

His 14 receptions and 150 receiving yards demonstrated his importance to the offense. He was the team’s leading receiver by a significant margin.

Puka Nacua 2026 Season Stats

Through seven appearances in the 2026 regular season, Nacua has recorded impressive receiving numbers.

These numbers highlight his consistency and importance to the Rams’ offensive system.

His ability to create separation, make difficult catches and gain yards after the reception makes him one of Matthew Stafford’s most valuable targets.

How Will Puka Nacua’s Injury Affect the Rams?

Losing Nacua for any significant period would create a major challenge for Los Angeles.

The Rams already have concerns at wide receiver because Davante Adams is dealing with a serious hamstring injury and remains on injured reserve.

If Nacua also misses time, the team’s passing offense could become considerably less productive.

Matthew Stafford would need additional contributions from players such as Tutu Atwell and other available receivers.

The Rams are currently trying to build on their three-game winning streak. Therefore, Nacua’s MRI results could influence their plans for the upcoming games and the trade deadline.

When Will Puka Nacua Return?

There is currently no confirmed return date for Nacua.

His recovery timeline will depend on the MRI findings and the medical team’s assessment.

If the injury is relatively minor, he could have an opportunity to return after a short recovery period. However, a more serious ligament or structural injury could require a longer absence.

The Rams also have a bye in Week 11, which could provide additional recovery time if he misses the upcoming game.

For now, the most important development is the MRI scheduled for November 9.

Conclusion

Puka Nacua’s knee injury has become an important storyline for the Los Angeles Rams following their Week 9 victory over Washington. Although the initial reports suggest the team does not believe he suffered a torn ACL, further testing is necessary to determine the actual diagnosis.

Nacua finished the game with 14 catches, 150 receiving yards and one touchdown, making his performance even more impressive given the late injury concern.

Rams fans will be watching closely for the MRI results and the team’s next injury update to learn whether their star receiver will be available against Arizona.

FAQs

1. What happened to Puka Nacua?

Puka Nacua suffered a knee injury on the Rams’ final offensive play against the Washington Commanders on November 8, 2026.

2. Did Puka Nacua tear his ACL?

Initial reports indicate that the Rams do not believe he suffered a torn ACL. An MRI is needed to confirm the extent of the injury.

3. When is Puka Nacua’s MRI?

Nacua is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday, November 9, 2026.

4. Is Puka Nacua playing today?

His playing status remains uncertain while the Rams evaluate his knee injury.

5. What were Puka Nacua’s stats against Washington?

He recorded 14 receptions for 150 yards and one touchdown, along with two carries for 20 rushing yards.

6. How many receiving yards does Puka Nacua have in 2026?

He has recorded 715 receiving yards through seven appearances in the 2026 regular season.

7. Will Puka Nacua play against the Cardinals?

His availability is not yet confirmed. The MRI results and subsequent updates from the Rams will determine his status.