Puka Nacua might be the top wide receiver in fantasy football. But anyone drafting the Los Angeles Rams wide receiver had more than one reason to sweat his status for Week 1, as both an injury and potential suspension left his availability in question for the opener against the San Francisco 49ers.
But as the Rams prepare for Thursday's game in Melbourne, Australia, head coach Sean McVay gave everyone a reason to breathe easy about Nacua's status. He said Sunday that Nacua is expected to play in Week 1, even as the wideout deals with psoas soreness (lower back muscle).
Rams WR Puka Nacua, who has been dealing with psoas soreness and also could be facing potential discipline under the NFL’s personal conduct policy for previous off-the-field behavior,
is expected to play in Week 1 vs. the 49ers, per HC Sean McVay. pic.twitter.com/2tUXpKlrfW
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 6, 2026
In addition to the injury, Nacua still faces potential suspension under the NFL's personal conduct policy after being sued for assault and battery by a woman who alleged he used an anti-semitic statement and bit her.
Should you start Puka Nacua in Week 1?
That's a no-brainer. If he's active, you play him. It sounds like he will be.
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This article originally appeared on For The Win: Will Puka Nacua play Week 1? Rams WR gets positive update for Thursday opener
