When Cooper Kupp was placed on the Injured Reserve ahead of the 2023-24 NFL season, uncertainty turned into melancholy for Los Angeles Rams fans. By the time Week 1 was over, though, the only emotion they were feeling was resounding jubilation.

A dominant second half allowed LA to pull off the big opening road win against the Seattle Seahawks. A depleted and young offensive group was not rattled by their opponents' experience. The next-man-up mentality paid huge dividends last Sunday night. But one of those Week 1 breakouts has apparently suffered a late-week setback.

Rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua, whose great NFL debut is a big reason why the Rams are 1-0, was sidelined at Thursday's practice with an oblique injury, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Could this franchise's long-awaited turn of fortune be just a fluke?

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Rams News
Los Angeles Rams linebacker Jared Verse (8) celebrates after sacking Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) (not pictured) during the first half at Lumen Field.
Terron Armstead makes huge NFL prediction for Rams’ Jared VerseRichard Pereira ·
The Rams have this quartet to fuel the excitement of 2025 post minicamp
4 hottest Los Angeles Rams takes coming out of 2025 minicampLorenzo J Reyna ·
The Rams may have veterans who won't make the final roster after minicamp
2 Los Angeles Rams in danger of getting cut after 2025 minicampLorenzo J Reyna ·
Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) returns an interception against the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter at Lumen Field.
Sean McVay drops cryptic ‘obstacles’ take on Jalen Ramsey tradeBen Strauss ·
New York Jets wide receiver Davante Adams (17) gains yards after catch during the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium
Rams rumors: Davante Adams ‘living in luxury’ after signing with LABen Strauss ·
Rams news: Los Angeles re-signs cornerback after surprising recent release
Rams re-sign cornerback after surprising recent releaseChris Spiering ·

Nacua led the team with 10 receptions for 119 yards, joining fellow wideout Tutu Atwell (six catches for also 119 yards) in a surprise star showing. While there were encouraging signs in training camp, few expected the fifth-round pick out of BYU to make such an immediate impact.

Both he and the 23-year-old Atwell displayed excellent chemistry with Matthew Stafford, which should alleviate any concerns fans had about the veteran quarterback's ability to connect with the younger players on the team. While there is no visible signs of tension, the injury bug has lingered in the locker room.

Oblique issues can be tricky. LA fans and fantasy football managers are hoping that Puka Nacua will be fine after a day or two of rest. Everyone loves a good underdog, and this newcomer has instantly injected much-needed excitement. The Rams cannot afford to endure any more misfortune in their WR room.