Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has expressed optimism about his recovery from an ACL injury, stating he feels much better as he enters the second year of rehabilitation. Murray explained that in this phase, players typically begin to feel like themselves again after a long recovery period.

“Now I feel like I’m back to where I was before that,”

Murray said, via Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.

“Obviously, my knee will probably never be the same as far as that goes. It’s just something you got to stay on top of. In totality of this team, this unit, I feel like, is definitely one of the best I’ve been a part of for sure.”

Puka Nacua Reflects on Wide Receiver Contracts and Staying Focused

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua commented on the wave of recent large contracts and extensions in the NFL wide receiver position when asked about earning a big paycheck himself. Nacua emphasized the importance of remaining present and focused on his current contributions rather than future earnings.

“I try to do my best to stay completely present where my feet are,”

Nacua said, via RamsWire.com.

“It’s exciting to see guys to push the envelope for the wide receiver game and especially when I know Garrett Wilson … We played in the high school All-American game together, so to be like, man, that was somebody I was on the football field with at the same time and to have — congrats. We’ve played against them, but just to be able to see wide receivers excel and continue to push the envelope for guys in the league, it’s super exciting for sure.”

Sean McVay Updates on Alaric Jackson’s Health and Season Outlook

Rams offensive tackle Alaric Jackson has been dealing with blood clots in his lower leg, an issue that sidelined him for nine games in 2022. Head coach Sean McVay addressed Jackson’s situation, noting that the team has a plan for his participation this season without placing him on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) or Non-Football Injury (NFI) lists.

“That’s obviously been a unique situation,”

McVay said, via the team’s YouTube.

“What I think’s been great that we’ve been able to learn is we do have a plan in place that we’re confident in that, most importantly, he feels good about, that hopefully leads to him being on the field for us. But we are going to take it a day at a time. He’s not going to be on a PUP or NFI list. What he’ll be able to do in the meantime is, some individual drills with [the training staff]. Some of that will be with coaches. Some of the jog-throughs. The actual physical stuff, he will not partake in right now. And we’ll just take it a day at a time with something of this nature.”

McVay expressed confidence in Jackson’s recovery progress, stating,

“But I do feel good about the plan we have in place that hopefully leads to him being able to go out there and compete with his teammates. I know he is really feeling good. He’s handled this like a total stud. And I think the perspective that this stuff gives you, where it’s about the human being first and foremost, but he’s got a lot of people that love him that are with him on this journey and we’re excited to be able to take it a day at a time with him.”

The coach also emphasized caution regarding expectations, saying,

“What I also don’t want to do, and hopefully you can understand this, is set expectations on something that we are in the process of learning. We have a plan in place that, if things go according to plan, feel like that is a very real possibility. But, again, this is the first time that I’ve navigated through anything like this with a player. You start to realize there’s a lot of guys that have been able to be in great situations, even though they’ve had to overcome some similar issues. So, the answer is we’re hopeful and optimistic. But what I don’t want to do is set expectations when there’s a lot of things that could happen. But taking it a day at a time is what’s going to be the right approach for all of us from a mental perspective and physically for Alaric.”

Jaxon Smith-Njigba Excited to Join Forces with Cooper Kupp in Seattle

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has already made an impact in the league, expressed enthusiasm about working alongside seasoned receiver Cooper Kupp this season. Smith-Njigba praised Kupp’s mindset and considered it a privilege to share the receiver room with him.

“He brings a next-level mindset,” Smith-Njigba said, via Ari Horton of the team’s website.

“I’m super excited to be with him in that receiver room. Another stellar receiver, great receiver, and I’m just blessed to be in the room with him.”

Implications for Players and Teams Moving Forward

These updates highlight the ongoing efforts of players like Kyler Murray and Alaric Jackson as they manage health challenges while preparing to contribute to their teams. Puka Nacua’s remarks reflect a grounded focus amid a broader league trend of lucrative contracts for wide receivers, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s excitement signals strong chemistry forming in Seattle. As these players continue their journeys, their perseverance and teamwork will play crucial roles in their respective seasons.