Puka Nacua has been on injured reserve since suffering a knee injury in Week 1, missing each of the last four games. He’s technically eligible to return from IR this weekend when the Rams face the Raiders, but it doesn’t sound like he’s ready to get back on the field.
The same goes for Steve Avila, who also injured his knee in the opener against the Lions. Sean McVay told reporters Monday that he doesn’t expect Nacua or Avila to practice this week as the Rams prepare to face the Raiders. That’s a clear indication that neither of them will play this weekend against Las Vegas.
McVay said both players are “still a little bit of ways away.”
“Exactly what that timeline is… Reggie (Scott) and his group are working tirelessly to get those guys back,” McVay said. “And so we’ll be really excited when that window of opportunity opens up for those guys to start to practice, and then to figure out what does it look like for them to be implemented back into potentially competing and doing their thing for us.”
As for Joe Noteboom, McVay said Monday’s workout will determine whether the Rams open his practice window this week. Once he’s designated to return, the Rams will have 21 days to activate him.
In terms of players on IR, Sean McVay said today is a big day for Joe Noteboom, as far as having a workout that will determine if team decides to open his 21-day practice window this week.
However, McVay does not expect Puka Nacua and Steve Avila to practice this week
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) October 14, 2024
Noteboom sprained his ankle in Week 1 while filling in for Alaric Jackson at left tackle. He also has the ability to play guard, so it’s possible that once he returns, he could replace Logan Bruss at left guard.
As badly as the Rams want their injured players to return, they won’t rush anyone back before they’re ready.