The Los Angeles Rams (2-4) haven’t had the begin to their season that they probably imagined, however it’s as a result of they’ve misplaced a number of key gamers like star extensive receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.
The Rams’ luck appears to be taking a flip for the higher, nonetheless, as NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero revealed the workforce is now optimistic that it might have each gamers again for its Week 8 matchup towards the Minnesota Vikings (5-1) on “Thursday Night time Soccer.”
Kupp, who suffered a excessive ankle sprain in Week 2, is predicted to be a full go.
“Let’s begin with Cooper Kupp, who’s off the damage report, formally, able to roll,” Pelissero mentioned. “Again within the lineup for the primary time since he suffered his ankle damage again in Week 2.”
Kupp ought to present a large increase to Los Angeles’ offense. When wholesome, he has confirmed to be among the best extensive receivers within the league with 585 catches for 7,213 yards and 52 touchdowns in his eight-year NFL profession.
Nacua’s standing is a bit more unsure, although. The second-year extensive receiver suffered a knee damage in Week 1 and has “solely had one actual observe” this week, in accordance with Pelissero.
“They only opened up Nacua’s observe window a few days in the past, however he is listed as questionable,” Pelissero added. “My understanding is there may be now optimism that Puka Nacua might play.”
It stays to be seen how a lot motion Nacua would see if he does play, however he would offer an additional increase to the Rams offense, nonetheless.
Having Kupp and Nacua again would additionally enable Los Angeles to start making ready for the long run, particularly if the workforce falls to 2-5.
“Might or not it’s the final time we see Cooper Kupp in a Rams uniform,” Pelissero requested. “He has been the topic of commerce talks in latest weeks.”
If each gamers have a very good exhibiting on Thursday night time, it might elevate Kupp’s commerce worth whereas additionally rising the Rams’ confidence in Nacua to be their future No. 1 extensive receiver.
Nacua already proved he could possibly be that final season when he registered 105 catches for 1,486 yards and 6 touchdowns as a rookie.