In early September 2023, Rams star Cooper Kupp was on the injured list and then-rookie Puka Nacua was trying to figure out how he fit into coach Sean McVay’s offense.

A year later, Kupp and Nacua open the season as one of the most dynamic receiver duos in the NFL.

Kupp, the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, is injury-free for the first time since the 2022 season. He sat out the first four games last year with a hamstring injury and was hampered all season by an ankle injury.

“Being able to go out there and just see it, react, do it and know that your body is trained to react and handle the stress that you put on it, is what makes this game really fun,” Kupp said, adding, “You feel really good and you’re excited to get going.”

Quarterback Matthew Stafford is also excited.

“He’s done a fantastic job of getting his body back to the level he wants to be as far as feeling good, getting out there, running, doing everything he needs to do to be Cooper Kupp,” Stafford said. “Just happy with his health right now and hopefully he stays that way.”

Last season, Nacua took advantage of Kupp’s absence, becoming Stafford’s favorite target and setting NFL rookie reception records. But the 2023 fifth-round draft pick went into his first opener merely following McVay’s instructions on every play. Now, he’s the one who owns the offense.

“It’s become more fun to be super focused on what I have to do, but also be there for my teammates,” Nacua said.

Nacua was sidelined for part of training camp due to a knee injury he suffered during a joint practice with the Chargers. He has recovered, and Stafford indicated that Nacua appears ready to build on his rookie success.

“I think it’s just a year of experience, right?” Stafford said. “He’s going to find ways to improve his craft and play his game at the highest level he can. He’s a kid that’s always looking at, ‘How can I get better? How can I get an edge here?'”

Read more: It’s ‘Sweet 16′ for the Rams’ Matthew Stafford, who is better equipped to start a new season

Nacua has a modest goal.

Last season he played in every game and he wants to repeat that feat.

“To be able to go there, be there for my team and for myself on Sunday, is something I cherish in my heart,” Nacua said. “That’s a challenge I’m ready for.”

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This story originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times.