The Los Angeles Rams picked up a big win against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, beating the Raiders 20-15. It was a much-needed victory that should add plenty of confidence for this beat-up team heading into Week 8.
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The Rams have been decimated by injuries, losing star players on both sides of the ball. However, they are set to get back one of their most important playmakers. Star wide receiver Cooper Kupp is working his way back from a high ankle sprain, and his injury status has dramatically improved ahead of Week 8.
The Rams listed Kupp as a full participant in practice, which is the best status he has had since injuring his ankle during Week 2. Though Kupp will need to practice a few more times as a full participant for his status in Week 8 to be confirmed, this is a huge step in the right direction.
Kupp has been missing in action since Week 2 when he injured his ankle against the Arizona Cardinals in the second quarter. The Rams were already hurting with injuries, and losing Kupp made things far more difficult.
Fellow star pass catcher Puka Nacua has yet to touch the field since the first half of Week 1 when he re-aggravated a knee injury he sustained during a joint practice against the Los Angeles Rams in Aug.
The Rams lost their two biggest playmakers in the matter of the first two weeks of the regular season, which led to the team's offense to struggle mightily. Even worse is Los Angeles has been without Steve Avila, Joe Noteboom, and Jonah Jackson who all suffered injuries in the first two weeks as well.
The Rams lost most of their starting offensive line and two top playmakers, leaving quarterback Matthew Stafford with little to work with. The good news is the team still has dynamic rusher Kyren Williams, who has been outstanding in 2024. So far, Williams is streaking with nine touchdowns in a row.
Despite Williams' spectacular performance, the Rams are 2-4 on the season. The losses of multiple starters have been tough for the team to deal with, and Los Angeles has only beaten the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3 and the Raiders in Week 7.
Though the team is currently 2-4, they are beginning to get healthy. Getting Kupp back will be huge, as he will join Tutu Atwell and Jordan Whittington to add another weapon for Stafford to use.
So far, there is no word on when Nacua might return, but at least Kupp will be a welcome sight on the gridiron.