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Rams Expect Nacua, Jackson to Play in Season Opener
Confirmed
In Short: The Los Angeles Rams do not expect wide receiver Puka Nacua and left tackle Alaric Jackson to face suspension for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.
The Los Angeles Rams do not expect wide receiver Puka Nacua and left tackle Alaric Jackson to face suspension for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, according to head coach Sean McVay. Despite ongoing legal situations, McVay stated that both players will be available for the game in Melbourne, Australia.
Nacua had voluntarily entered a holistic care facility to focus on his personal growth before being sued, and departed the facility in time to participate in the entirety of L.A.'s offseason program. Jackson, however, was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence on June 9.
The Los Angeles Rams kick off their 2026 season Thursday against NFC West rival San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, marking the first time the NFL has played Down Under. The game will be a crucial test for Nacua, who is entering a crucial season.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- The Los Angeles Rams officially revealed their Week 1 depth chart, listing rookie Ty Simpson as the third-string quarterback.
- After a strong preseason showing, the Los Angeles Rams have released their depth chart for the start of the 2026 season.
- The Rams had been adamant about Simpson sitting and learning this season, especially as Stafford nears the end of his career.
- "Yeah, absolutely," McVay said in his Sunday news conference after being asked if he expected the two to suit up against the Niners, via ESPN's Sarah Barshop.
- The question hanging over the two players' availability has been whether Nacua and/or Jackson might face potential discipline under the NFL's personal conduct policy, but McVay hasn't received any information to make him believe a punishment would come to pass ahead of the season opener.
- McVay also provided practice updates on the Rams' two most high-profile defensive linemen.
- Donald's Week 1 participation remains up in the air after the three-time Defensive Player of the Year came out of retirement to rejoin the Rams a week ago, while Garrett has missed several weeks of practice due to knee soreness.
- A ruling from the Supreme Court on Talwani's earlier order was not expected until sometime after 10 a.m.