Rams Beat Commanders 20-13 as Nacua Hurt
Los Angeles held on for a 20-13 win over Washington, but star receiver Puka Nacua left with a knee injury on the final offensive snap.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Football
The Los Angeles Rams defeated the Washington Commanders 20-13 on Sunday at Northwest Stadium. The win came at a cost, as receiver Puka Nacua injured his knee on the Rams' final offensive snap.
Why it matters
Nacua was central to the Rams' passing game, and his injury raises questions about the team's receiving depth heading into later weeks. Davante Adams is already on injured reserve, which further thins the Rams' wide receiver group.
The Rams outscored Washington 14-3 after halftime to win 20-13 and improve to 5-4 on the season. Nacua had nine catches by halftime before the injury, but the full extent of the knee damage has not been determined.
The players
Puka Nacua
Puka Nacua is a Los Angeles Rams wide receiver who has been one of the team's leading pass catchers.
Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams are an NFL franchise that plays its home games in the Los Angeles area.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are an NFL franchise based in the Washington, D.C. area.
Myles Garrett
Myles Garrett is a Cleveland Browns defensive end known for his pass-rushing ability.
The details
Nacua injured his knee on a throwaway run on 3rd and 11, taking a heavy hit on what was the Rams' final offensive snap. Earlier, he fumbled in the second quarter, which Nick Cross recovered, while Myles Garrett's strip-sack of Jayden Daniels gave the Rams a takeaway on the other side of the ball.
Timeline
Sunday: Rams defeat Commanders 20-13 and Nacua is injured at Northwest Stadium.
Monday: Nacua is scheduled for an MRI on his knee.
Season Trajectory
Nacua's knee injury arrives as the Rams try to stay in the playoff hunt at 5-4, with their receiving group already missing Davante Adams on injured reserve. How the team absorbs Nacua's absence will shape its competitive path over the rest of the season.
Nacua's status will directly affect fantasy lineups and the Rams' passing options in the coming games. Fans tracking the team should watch for the MRI results on Monday to gauge how long he may be sidelined.
The takeaway
The Rams picked up a win, but Nacua's injury puts their depth at wide receiver under pressure. Monday's MRI will be the key data point for what comes next.
What happens next
Nacua is scheduled for an MRI on Monday to determine the extent of his knee injury.
Further reading
For more on the Rams' season, see Football coverage.
