As the NFL season charges into Week 4 on this October 2, 2026, the injury landscape is shifting rapidly, with high-profile stars inching closer to returns while others remain in limbo. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Los Angeles Rams are poised to welcome back dynamic wide receiver Puka Nacua, who has been sidelined for two games with a hip and groin issue. Head coach Sean McVay expressed optimism that Nacua will suit up against the Philadelphia Eagles, a crucial NFC showdown.
Nacua, speaking to reporters on Thursday, emphasized a measured approach: "I’m taking it one day at a time. I’m getting my feet under me, hearing all the play calls. It’s not as foreign as it used to sound from Matthew Stafford, but he’s definitely in full flow and rhythm. It’s nice to be able to hear that play call in the huddle. I have to make sure I buckle my stuff up before so I can really focus on what he’s saying." While officially listed as limited, Nacua participated fully in Thursday’s session, a promising sign for a Rams offense that has missed his explosive presence.
Justin Jefferson’s Ankle Woes
On the flip side, the Minnesota Vikings are holding their breath over superstar Justin Jefferson, who missed Thursday’s practice with an ankle sprain. Jefferson went down early in the Vikings’ 23-16 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and an MRI on Monday confirmed no additional damage beyond the sprain. Head coach Kevin O’Connell noted that Jefferson was "close" to returning during the game, but ultimately couldn’t go. His status for Week 4 remains uncertain, and fantasy managers are rightfully anxious.
Quarterback Carousel in Chicago
The Chicago Bears are navigating their own quarterback quandary. Caleb Williams, dealing with a hamstring injury, is expected to miss another week but could return in Week 5. Head coach Ben Johnson has already decided on his starter for Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets but hasn’t made it public. "We’ll be in good shape for Sunday," Johnson said, with Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum—who started Week 4—as the leading candidates. The Bears’ decision will have ripple effects in fantasy leagues and betting lines alike.
Other Key Injuries to Monitor
The Seattle Seahawks received a boost as running back Zach Charbonnet was designated to return to practice on Thursday. Charbonnet, recovering from a torn ACL suffered in last January’s NFC Divisional Round, began the season on the PUP list. The team now has a 21-day window to activate him or rule him out for the season. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens saw quarterback Lamar Jackson (back) and wide receiver Zay Flowers (hamstring) upgraded to full participants on Thursday after Jackson missed Wednesday’s practice with what was described as "something small."
In New York, the Jets are preparing for a heavier workload for Braelon Allen as starting running back Breece Hall deals with a quad injury from Week 3. Allen has taken most first-team reps and remains unfazed: "Nothing really changes for me in terms of preparation or my mindset, anything like that. I’ve always prepared to be in that position." Elsewhere, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans (rib) missed practice again, but head coach Kyle Shanahan said the veteran "will make every attempt" to play against the Denver Broncos.
Week 4 Injury Report Highlights
- Green Bay Packers: WR Jayden Reed (neck) – OUT
- Miami Dolphins: RB De’Von Achane (ACL) – OUT
- New Orleans Saints: RB Travis Etienne Jr. (hamstring) – OUT
- New York Giants: QB Jaxson Dart (knee) – OUT
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: QB Baker Mayfield (thumb) – OUT; WR Jalen McMillan (knee) – OUT
- Washington Commanders: G Samuel Cosmi (concussion/throat) – OUT; S Nick Cross (illness) – OUT
As always, stay locked into Vulius for the latest injury updates and fantasy implications. With so many moving parts, this week’s slate promises to be a test of depth and resilience for teams across the league.
Looking to represent Puka Nacua? Grab your Puka Nacua jersey or design a personalized football jersey at Vulius.
