Kupp has been leaning toward a return for a few weeks now, so much so that his name has been thrown into a frenzied trade deadline rumor mill about receivers. Nacua is a surprise for almost everyone.

Nacua had opened his 21-day practice window this week, putting him on track to return from injured reserve soon. Those windows last 21 days for a reason, though, and Thursday night’s return comes on the short side of things and gives Stafford a receiving threat he’s desperately needed for weeks.

Nacua set a rookie record in 2023, catching 105 passes for 1,486 yards and six touchdowns, creating a dangerous one-two punch with Kupp (when he was available) for the Rams. Nacua is not expected to play the majority of the offensive snaps. But his presence alone is sure to add a twist to this Thursday night story.