If you’re a Rams fan, you’ve probably spent the last few months holding your breath every time Puka Nacua hits the turf. The guy plays like a human wrecking ball. It’s what makes him elite, but it’s also why we’re constantly checking the injury report.
Right now, the big question is: when is Puka Nacua coming back to full, unrestricted health?
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Actually, the news is better than most people think. As of mid-January 2026, Puka isn't just "coming back"—he’s already back in the thick of it. But there’s a lot of noise about his durability and whether he’s truly 100% for the divisional round against the Bears.
The Current Status: He’s Playing
Let’s clear this up immediately. Puka Nacua played in the Wild Card win against the Carolina Panthers on January 10. He didn't just play; he was the engine. He hauled in six catches for 72 yards and was basically Matthew Stafford’s security blanket when Davante Adams was getting bracketed.
But "playing" and "being healthy" are two different things in the NFL.
Honestly, the 2025-2026 season has been a rollercoaster for him. He’s dealt with a nagging ankle injury that cost him time in October, then a rib issue in November. Every time he looks like he's about to break a record, he takes a massive hit that sends everyone into a panic.
Why People Are Still Asking
The confusion usually stems from the "DNP" (Did Not Practice) tags he gets during the week. Sean McVay has been very open about managing Puka’s reps. If you see him miss a Wednesday practice, don't freak out. It’s almost certainly "veteran rest" or maintenance for that ankle he rolled back in Week 6 against Baltimore.
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Nacua is a warrior. McVay actually called him that specifically after the Week 7 Jaguars game that Puka had to miss. The team is protecting him from himself. If it were up to Puka, he’d probably play with a broken leg if it meant getting one more contested catch.
When is Puka Nacua Coming Back to 100%?
Realistically? Probably not until the 2026 offseason.
That sounds harsh, but it's the reality of the "Power Slot" role he plays. He’s constantly blocking 250-pound linebackers and catching passes across the middle where safeties are looking to take his head off.
The Injury History This Season
- The Knee: This goes back to the PCL strain in the 2024 season. While it hasn't been the primary issue lately, it’s always the "baseline" concern for his mobility.
- The Left Ankle: This happened on October 12, 2025, against the Ravens. He tried to come back in that game—because of course he did—but was clearly a decoy. He missed the London game against Jacksonville and used the Week 8 bye to get right.
- The Ribs: Just as he got the ankle sorted, he took a shot to the chest against the Saints in early November.
Despite all that, his production is still stupidly high. He finished the 2025 regular season with jaw-dropping numbers, especially considering he missed several games. When he’s on the field, he averages over 11 targets per start. That is a massive workload.
The Playoff Outlook
The Rams are heading into a freezing matchup against the Chicago Bears. If you’re worried about the cold affecting Puka's injuries, he’s already brushed that off. In a recent press conference on January 15, he talked about "embracing the cold weather."
He’s not moving like a guy who is scared of a lingering injury.
However, the Rams' offense has shifted. With Davante Adams now in the mix, the pressure isn't all on Puka anymore. This is actually great for his longevity. Early in the season, Stafford was forcing it to him because he was the only reliable option. Now, the defense has to pick their poison.
What to Watch For
If you're tracking his status for your own sanity or just out of fandom, watch the Friday injury reports.
That’s the "truth" day.
If he’s a full participant on Friday, he’s a go. If he’s "Limited," expect him to play but maybe see fewer snaps in heavy run sets. The Rams have been using Jordan Whittington and Tutu Atwell to give Puka breathers, which is a smart move for a guy who has a target on his back every Sunday.
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Actionable Next Steps for Fans
- Check the Friday Final Report: Ignore the Wednesday/Thursday noise. Friday is when the official "Questionable" or "Active" tags are settled.
- Monitor the Weather: Cold weather can make joint injuries (like that ankle) feel stiffer. Watch his movement in the first quarter of the Bears game to see if he’s got his usual "twitch."
- Look at the Target Share: If Puka isn't getting looks early, it might be a sign the Rams are using him as a decoy to keep him safe for a potential NFC Championship run.
Basically, Puka Nacua is back. He’s the heart of this Rams team. As long as he can walk, he’s going to be out there catching passes and making defenders regret their career choices.