Sean McVay reveals why Rams reversed course on Puka Nacua’s injured reserve decision

Rams receiver Puka Nacua hasn’t received a new update on his knee and toe injuries. His recovery and timeline remain the same, the team simply ran out of room on the roster.

After initially deciding against placing their All-Pro wide receiver on injured reserve, the Rams reversed course Thursday night, officially sidelining Nacua for at least four games after he suffered MCL and PCL sprains in his right knee, along with turf toe, on the final offensive play of Sunday’s 20-13 victory over the Commanders.

On Friday, Rams coach Sean McVay explained the abrupt change of plans.

“I’m sure you guys are wondering what changed with Puka. We needed the roster spot,” McVay said. “We didn’t need it initially.”

McVay insisted the decision wasn’t prompted by a setback in Nacua’s recovery. The Rams never realistically expected their superstar receiver to return before the minimum four-game absence required by injured reserve.

“Some things changed where we needed that spot because of all the moving pieces,” McVay said. “That was what we did to be able to get Brennan Presley up.”

Nacua, meanwhile, has begun rehabilitation and remains in good spirits, according to McVay.

With Nacua sidelined and fellow star receiver Davante Adams also unavailable, the Rams elevated Presley to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s Week 10 rematch against the Cardinals.

McVay praised Presley’s consistency, versatility and ability to contribute beyond the receiving corps.

“He’s just one of those guys that makes the plays when his number’s called,” McVay said. “He’s a great teammate, really smart, where he can play a lot of different spots if need be, can contribute on special teams.”

Presley could also factor into the kick return rotation alongside Ronnie Rivers and the recently returned Xavier Smith.

For a Rams team whose injury list keeps growing, the decision wasn’t particularly complicated. Nacua wasn’t coming back anytime soon, and Los Angeles needed another healthy body who could help immediately.

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