Puka Nacua was in obvious pain as he walked gingerly to the locker room clutching his left side. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Exciting rookie Rams receiver Puka Nacua made a dramatic return to Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns after leaving the first half with a rib injury.
Nacua suffered the injury on a second-quarter catch, landing hard on his right side and staying down for several moments. He managed to get up and walk off the field, but with obvious pain as he went to the locker room.
The Rams later announced that he had a rib injury and was doubtful to return. He ended up joining his teammates on the field for the start of the second half, which is great news for the Rams and Nacua. He has been a strong No. 1 option for quarterback Matthew Stafford in Cooper Kupp’s absence earlier in the season.
Before his injury, he had already racked up 924 yards and three touchdowns, and he set a Rams rookie record for receiving yards for the season before halftime on Sunday. Despite the setback, he will have the opportunity to add to this record as the season progresses.