Should I Start Puka Nacua?

Wednesday, November 11, 10:57 AM

The Los Angeles Rams are not placing wide receiver Puka Nacua (knee, toe) on Injured Reserve because of roster mechanics, but he will be out for some time, according to Nate Atkins of The Athletic. A report earlier on Wednesday said that the Rams are optimistic that Nacua will be able to return in Week 14 against the division-rival San Francisco 49ers or in Week 15 against the Dallas Cowboys. Davante Adams, Jordan Whittington, and Terrance Ferguson are all already on IR, so the Rams are running out of pass-catchers in their passing game. If the Rams were to place Nacua on IR, he would still be required to miss at least four games, even though the Rams have their bye coming in Week 11. Fantasy managers will not get any roster relief themselves if Nacua is kept off IR, but he should remain stashed in all fantasy leagues as one of the best receivers in the NFL when he is healthy. The 25-year-old two-time Pro Bowler caught 14 of 19 targets for 150 yards and a touchdown (his third week in a row with a score) in Sunday's 20-13 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 9, but he came out of that contest with an MCL/PCL issue in his knee and turf toe. It is a tough blow for fantasy managers and the Rams, but if he recovers quickly, Nacua could be back in the fold just in time for the fantasy playoffs.