Puka Nacua is officially sidelined for Sunday’s showdown against the Denver Broncos, marking his second straight missed game after sitting out the Week 2 win over the New York Giants. This isn’t just a bummer, it is a huge blow, with Nacua being listed as doubtful for the Broncos game. That designation typically means a 94-99% chance he is out, so yeah, we are definitely not seeing him on the field.
The Nacua Watch: Week 4 Or Bust?
So, the star receiver is out, nursing a hip injury, and it is a tough pill to swallow. But hey, there is a glimmer of hope from head coach Sean McVay. He is putting it out there that Nacua could be back as soon as Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles. McVay specifically said he “believes” Nacua will return, “barring a setback,” which is, you know, a classic coach caveat. Still, that is a quick turnaround if it happens! On the defensive side, Kamren Kinchens is also listed as doubtful for the Broncos game with a hamstring strain that kept him out against the Giants. The vibe around Kinchens is a little less optimistic, with no timeline mentioned for his return. That is definitely a situation to keep an eye on, too.
Who Steps Up Against That Nasty Denver Secondary?
With Nacua out, all eyes turn to who Matthew Stafford will be throwing to. Good news arrived with Jordan Whittington coming off the injury list. He is the logical guy to step up as a starting receiver alongside Davante Adams. Whittington actually crushed it in 2024, when both Cooper Kupp and Nacua were out, admirably filling in for two games against Chicago and Green Bay. He snagged 13 catches on 18 targets for 151 yards in those two outings. Remember Tutu Atwell from those games? He also rose to the occasion, taking on a far heavier load, so he is another one to watch. Then there is Terrance Ferguson, the highly touted second-year tight end. With Colby Parkinson listed as “questionable” McVay said Parkinson is “trending in the right direction”, Ferguson could get the nod as TE1. He was targeted nine times against New York, catching six passes for 54 yards. Facing a strong Denver secondary anchored by Patrick Surtain, whoever is out there needs to perform.
This Broncos game is a real test of depth, especially with that tough secondary waiting. But with McVay’s confidence in Nacua for Week 4, every catch, every yard from guys like Whittington and Ferguson until then feels huge. Keep those fingers crossed for no setbacks, because getting Nacua back next week would be absolutely massive.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Turf Show Times.
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