Rams can open the season against Lions with a healthy dose of Cooper Kupp-Puka Nacua

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 will open the season as one of the most dynamic receiver duos in the NFL.

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

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

Quarterback Matthew Stafford is also excited.

“He’s done a fantastic job of getting his body back to where he wants it to be, as far as his comfort level, getting out there, running and everything that it takes to be Cooper Kupp,” Stafford said. “I’m just happy right now that he’s doing well and hope that continues to be the case.”

Last season, Nacua benefited from Kupp’s absence, becoming Stafford’s favorite target and setting NFL records for rookie receptions. But the 2023 fifth-round draft pick began his first opening game by following McVay’s instructions on every play. Now he has mastered the offense.

“It’s more fun to be able to fully focus on what I have to do, but at the same time be there for my teammates,” Nacua said.

Nacua sat out part of training camp after suffering a knee injury during a joint practice with the Chargers. He has recovered, and Stafford indicated that Nacua appears ready to build on his success as a rookie.

“I think it’s just another year of experience, right?” Stafford said. “He’s going to find ways to hone his craft and play his game at the highest level possible. He’s a kid who’s always looking: How can I get better? How can I get an advantage here?”

Read more: It’s “Sweet 16” for Rams’ Matthew Stafford, better equipped to open another season

Nacua has a modest goal.

He played in every game last season and wants to repeat that feat.

“Going out there and being there for my team and myself on Sundays is something that I care about,” Nacua said. “It’s a challenge that I’m ready for.”

Get the day’s best, most interesting and weirdest stories from the LA sports scene and beyond from our newsletter, The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times.