The Los Angeles Rams received brutal news on Monday when an MRI revealed that Puka Nacua sprained his MCL and PCL, and he's also dealing with turf toe. Sean McVay said he's likely to land on injured reserve, sidelining him through at least Week 14.
With Davante Adams already on the shelf, it's a devastating blow to the offense, leaving the Rams without their top two receivers for at least the next few weeks.
No team needs wide receiver help more than the Rams right now, and the trade deadline is merely hours away. McVay is open to acquiring wide receiver help after previously being reluctant to make a move, showing how desperate the Rams are right now for depth.
Here are five last-minute targets for Los Angeles before the 4 p.m. ET deadline.
Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars
This
is the big one to watch. The Jaguars are barely playing Thomas right now, which shows how far he's fallen in Jacksonville. He's a former first-round pick by the Jaguars in 2024, and he lit it up as a rookie with 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. Then the sophomore slump happened, and he's been even worse this season.
Maybe a change of scenery would do him good. And he's exactly the type of receiver who can help the Rams create the big plays they've been searching for. It is worth noting that he would likely cost the most of anyone on this list, and he's also not the most willing blocker, nor does he like to go over the middle in traffic.
Josh Downs, Colts
Downs requested a trade from the Colts a few weeks ago and nothing has come to fruition yet, but he's the perfect trade candidate. He's in the final year of his rookie contract, which means he's cost-controlled for the rest of the season but will need a new deal after his contract expires in March. And according to ESPN, the Colts already have an offer of a fourth-round pick, so it'll take at least that to acquire him.
Downs is on the smaller side at 5-foot-9, but he's quick and knows how to create separation, which is just what the Rams need right now with Nacua out.
Keenan Allen, Colts
Downs' teammate, Allen, could also be moved, and he'd probably have no problem returning to California where he spent most of his career. While not nearly the playmaker he once was, Allen is still a trustworthy target for his quarterback. He's continued to win on short and intermediate routes, which is where Nacua normally does most of his damage.
Allen wouldn't solve the Rams' downfield passing woes, but he can be a chain-mover until Nacua returns.
George Pickens, Cowboys
Pickens hasn't exactly solidified himself as a long-term option in Dallas, and as reluctant as the Cowboys probably are to move him, he's playing on the franchise tag and could easily be dealt. He's one of the best deep threats in the NFL, and while the Rams would have to accept his shortcomings as a blocker, his talent is undeniable.
For a half-year rental, Pickens would provide a spark on offense and give Stafford a big, downfield weapon in the passing game. A move like this would come with some risk, but the Rams' backs are against the wall.
Jerry Jeudy, Browns
Jeudy is two years removed from his Pro Bowl season in 2024 when he had 1,229 yards with the Browns, but he's struggled to produce since the start of 2025. He's been a smooth route runner throughout his career and can make plays after the catch with his speed, so there are some qualities to be excited about. His hands are at times unreliable, though, and his lack of production is concerning.
Still, for a relatively low cost, he could be someone who has an impact on an offense like the Rams', where receivers are schemed open and the quarterback play is much better than what he's had in Cleveland.
Honorable mentions
Garrett Wilson, Jets: It would probably take at least two first-round picks to land Wilson, who's one of the best young receivers in the game. But it's hard to picture the Rams making that move, especially with Nacua still needing to be paid.
Jauan Jennings, Vikings: Jennings nixed a trade back to the 49ers, suggesting he's happy and content in Minnesota – despite not being involved whatsoever on offense.
Calvin Ridley, Titans: His contract is bloated and he's well past his prime, but he's still a good route runner and can separate from DBs.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 5 WRs the Rams could target before today's trade deadline
