What changed? Rams make stunning Puka Nacua reversal just one day after McVay’s assurances

The Los Angeles Rams placed Puka Nacua on injured reserve, reversing a decision coach Sean McVay had described the previous day as unnecessary. The move means their leading receiver will miss at least four games as he recovers from knee and toe injuries, leaving the team without a key target during a crucial stretch.

Nacua is expected to be out through the 13 December game against the San Francisco 49ers, making the 20 December meeting with the Dallas Cowboys his earliest possible return. The Rams promoted Brennan Presley to the active roster and added Tyler Scott to the practice squad. NFL teams have eight injured reserve return designations for the regular season; Los Angeles has used three and may need four more for injured players, leaving one for the rest of the season.