The Los Angeles Rams are set to launch their 2026 season on Thursday against their NFC West rival, the San Francisco 49ers. This significant game will occur in Melbourne, Australia, marking the NFL’s debut in that country.

A key focus on the Rams’ offensive lineup is the status of their star wide receiver, Puka Nacua. Nacua has been recovering from an uncommon psoas injury sustained during practice on August 11. The psoas muscle links the lower spine to the hip and is crucial for leg lifting and hip bending. Therefore, this injury could impede a physically demanding player like Nacua.

Optimism came from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on Sunday, who revealed that Nacua seems on track to participate in the season’s opener. “You don’t often hear about psoas injuries,” said Fowler. “The team rested him for a few weeks, but he resumed full activity without setbacks this week.” Rams’ head coach Sean McVay confirmed the expectation of Nacua playing in Week 1 against the 49ers.

Nacua faces a crucial 2026 season as he enters his fourth year in the league. His position as a leading offensive force carries the expectation to maintain top-level performance. However, despite his impressive record, Nacua has yet to secure a long-term contract extension. Meanwhile, receivers such as Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Drake London, Zay Flowers, and Chris Olave have received new deals during the offseason.

Having been drafted in the fifth round in 2023 from BYU, Nacua swiftly proved his prowess by earning two Pro Bowl selections. Last season, he received first-team All-Pro honors with 129 catches from 166 targets, accumulating 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns. Alongside Davante Adams, Nacua is part of one of the league’s most formidable wide receiver pairs. With both players set to start in Week 1, the Rams are poised to gain a substantial advantage.

Fans can catch the Rams-49ers game on Thursday at 8:35 p.m. ET on Netflix.