With Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua back, the Rams have some decisions to make

When the Los Angeles Rams suffered two serious injuries to Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua in September, it seemed like it would take them forever to get those players back.

But the Rams will get healthier before the end of October. Now they have to figure out how to handle this situation.

Kupp, who suffered an ankle injury in Week 2, was removed from the injury report by the Rams this week ahead of their Thursday night game against the Minnesota Vikings. What was a little more surprising was that Nacua was listed as questionable on the injury report and was then added to the squad from injured reserve on Thursday. Nacua was activated for Thursday night's game because he was not on the team's inactive list, which was provided 90 minutes before kickoff via Greg Beacham of the Associated Press.

Nacua struggled with a knee injury until August and was injured again in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions.

The pair is invaluable to the Rams' offense. Kupp is a favorite target of Matthew Stafford, not far removed from a 1,947-yard season in 2021 that ended with a Super Bowl MVP. Nacua made a big splash as a rookie last season, setting records with 105 catches for 1,486 yards. The Rams offense was missing these players as they started the season 2-4. But it's more complicated than just getting parts back.

Thursday's game could change the way the Rams think about the next few weeks, and it could also change the NFL landscape. There have been reports that the Rams have discussed a Kupp transfer with teams. Whether they win on Thursday night and improve to 3-4, or lose and fall to 2-5, could have an impact on whether they are more aggressive in shopping Kupp – and perhaps even Stafford – or hang on to him hoping to get healthier The offense is pushing them into the playoffs. How Kupp views his return could also impact trade talks.

While Nacua won't be a phenomenon in his second season, Kupp could be the most impactful player who could realistically be available for a trade before the November 5th deadline. Thursday night should also have a big impact on the future of Kupp and the Rams. Los Angeles made the playoffs last season, and if they go 3-4 while getting their receivers back, the Rams might think they can make a breakthrough.

Either way, it's good news for the Rams that they're getting healthier. After playing without Kupp and Nacua for more than a third of the season, the offense needs some reinforcements.