Rams rely on Nacua after Adams injury
The receiver caught 19 passes for 148 yards in the last two games while serving as a primary blocker and runner.
By Diego Mendoza ·
The Los Angeles Rams have leaned heavily on wide receiver Puka Nacua over the past two weeks. This shift occurred after teammate Davante Adams was placed on injured list with a severe hamstring problem. Nacua has been a focal point of the offense for four seasons, but his role has expanded considerably since Adams left the lineup.
In the victories against the Las Vegas Raiders and the Los Angeles Chargers, Nacua was targeted 22 times. He caught 19 passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns. These numbers do not stand out in isolation, as Nacua recorded 17 receptions on 24 targets during a loss to the Buffalo Bills on October 12. However, his production contrasts sharply with the rest of the receiving group during this stretch.
Since Adams was injured following an 18-16 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on October 18, the other receivers have seen limited action. Tutu Atwell has two receptions, Konata Mumpfield has one, and Jordan Whittington has none. This usage pattern reflects the team's transition to multiple tight end formations over the last two seasons. It also shows how effectively Nacua fits into coach Sean McVay's system.
Offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase views Nacua's heavy workload as a strength rather than a burden. Scheelhaase noted that Nacua finds ways to make plays from every position. Whether he is running deep routes, short patterns, or gaining yards after the catch, he has been productive since entering the NFL. The coordinator added that Nacua can also handle the ball on the ground, particularly in short-yardage situations near the goal line.
Nacua serves a critical role in the running game as a blocker. He often aligns at the point of attack and moves across the formation to shield runners Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. This technique prevents defenders from reaching the ball carrier at the line of scrimmage. Scheelhaase mentioned that the team misses Nacua's catching ability when he is not playing. However, he emphasized the value of Nacua's blocking in jet sweeps and other handoff plays.
The Rams will continue to use Nacua in these varied roles while Adams recovers. The team's offensive scheme relies on his versatility to maintain pressure on defenses. His ability to function as a deep threat, a short-yardage receiver, and a lead blocker provides a specific tactical advantage in McVay's system.
