Rams expect Puka Nacua to miss extended time with injuries

Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay said Monday that wide receiver Puka Nacua is expected to miss an extended stretch with sprains of the MCL and PCL in his knee and turf toe. McVay said the team will likely place Nacua on injured reserve, which would require him to miss at least four games. The Rams have not confirmed a formal designation or a return date.

Nacua was injured on the Rams’ final offensive snap in their win over Washington on Sunday. He took a handoff on a jet sweep and was tackled for a five-yard gain. The Rams won 20-13, and Nacua finished with 14 catches for 150 yards and a touchdown.

Speaking to reporters Monday, McVay said Nacua would be out for “a good amount of time.” The coach also said he had repeatedly questioned the decision to call the final play, telling reporters, “I’d be lying to you if I said I haven’t questioned the decision making on that last play over and over.”

An injured-reserve placement would mean Nacua misses at least four games, but the team’s Week 11 bye would not count toward that minimum. One report said Week 15 could be the earliest likely return point if he is placed on the list; McVay did not give a return timetable.