The Los Angeles Rams (2-4) have not had the start to their season that they likely imagined, but it’s because they’ve lost several key players like star wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.
The Rams’ luck seems to be taking a turn for the better, however, as NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero revealed the team is now optimistic that it could have both players back for its Week 8 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings (5-1) on “Thursday Night Football.”
Kupp, who suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 2, is expected to be a full go.
“Let’s start with Cooper Kupp, who is off the injury report, officially, ready to roll,” Pelissero said. “Back in the lineup for the first time since he suffered his ankle injury back in Week 2.”
Kupp should provide a massive boost to Los Angeles’ offense. When healthy, he has proven to be one of the best wide receivers in the league with 585 catches for 7,213 yards and 52 touchdowns in his eight-year NFL career.
Nacua’s status is a little more uncertain, though. The second-year wide receiver suffered a knee injury in Week 1 and has “only had one real practice” this week, according to Pelissero.
“They just opened up Nacua’s practice window a couple of days ago, but he’s listed as questionable,” Pelissero added. “My understanding is there is now optimism that Puka Nacua could play.”
It remains to be seen how much action Nacua would see if he does play, but he would provide an extra boost to the Rams offense, nonetheless.
Having Kupp and Nacua back would also allow Los Angeles to begin preparing for the future, especially if the team falls to 2-5.
“Could it be the last time we see Cooper Kupp in a Rams uniform,” Pelissero asked. “He has been the subject of trade talks in recent weeks.”
If both players have a good showing on Thursday night, it could raise Kupp’s trade value while also increasing the Rams’ confidence in Nacua to be their future No. 1 wide receiver.
Nacua already proved he could be that last season when he registered 105 catches for 1,486 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie.