PukaNacua

News: 2 days agoNacua was a non-participant at Thursday's joint practice with the Saints, Stu Jackson and Zach Edwards of the Rams' official site report.

Spin: Nacua has been a spectator at practice since departing last Tuesday's joint session with the Cowboys early, eventually getting diagnosed with soreness in his psoas. On Monday, coach Sean McVay said Nacua may not return to practice until next week, which now will be his next chance to mix back into drills. The Rams likely will continue to take it easy with Nacua to ensure he's healthy for a Week 1 matchup with the 49ers in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday, Sept. 10.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Nacua has defied the odds, emerging from fifth-round flier in 2023 to one of the most relied upon and productive offensive players in the league. Nacua has finished each of his three pro seasons sixth or better among receivers in fantasy PPG and peaked with a first-place finish last season. Matthew Stafford's top target led the league with 129 receptions and finished no lower than third among receivers in targets, yardage and touchdowns, while also adding 105 yards and one score as a rusher. More goal-line work would be nice (he has 11 end zone targets over the past two seasons), but Nacua's heavy usage in an elite offense locks in the 25-year-old as arguably the top receiver in fantasy.