The Los Angeles Rams were hit with a wave of injuries in the first half of Sunday’s season opener against the Houston Texans, leaving multiple key players questionable to return.
Early in the second quarter, wide receiver Puka Nacua left the game after absorbing a hard hit from Texans linebacker Henry To’oto’o, who was flagged for unnecessary roughness on the play. Nacua came up bleeding near his eye and was taken to the locker room for evaluation. The Rams later announced he is being checked for a possible concussion, and his status remains questionable.
Rams’ Kevin Dotson, Steve Avila Sidelined Due To Injury
On the same drive, tight end Colby Parkinson exited with a shoulder injury and was also ruled questionable to return.
The injuries weren’t limited to pass-catchers. Starting right guard Kevin Dotson left with an ankle injury, leaving the Rams down both of their first-team guards. With Steve Avila previously sidelined by a back issue, Los Angeles adjusted by sliding Avila back into the game at left guard while rookie Beaux Limmer shifted over to right guard.
The reshuffled interior line faces a difficult challenge against Houston’s aggressive pass rush, particularly with quarterback Matthew Stafford managing his own well-documented health concerns.
At the time of the injuries, the Texans held a 3–0 lead with 13:21 remaining in the second quarter at SoFi Stadium.
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