The latest updates for BYU fans on the anticipated returns of NFL stars Puka Nacua and Taysom Hill
By D.A. Sweat
BYU football fans are fortunate to be able to root for 16 former Cougars currently on active NFL rosters. Among those 16 are three of the most exciting and exceptional players in the league in All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner, wide receiver Puka Nacua who last year set NFL records for receptions and receiving yards by a rookie, and Taysom Hill who is rocketing up the Saints career touchdown list.
While Fred Warner is in the conversation for the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year with his play this season, both Puka Nacua and Taysom Hill have been sidelined by injury for extended periods this year.
BYU fans can’t wait to get both of them back on the field.
After setting NFL rookie records last year with 105 receptions and 1,486 yards, Puka got injured in the Rams first game this year. In Week 1 he recorded four receptions for 35 yards before injuring his knee. He has missed the Rams last five games and the team has struggled to a 2-4 start.
There are reasons for BYU fans and Rams fans to be hopeful that Puka’s return is imminent. Earlier this week Nacua returned to practice and according to NFL.com the Rams are “optimistic” he will make his return tonight as Los Angeles faces the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football. BYU fans can only hope that starting this week they’ll have the joy of watching highlights of the former Cougar racing to the end zone with his hair flowing out the back of his helmet.
Taysom Hill’s injury is a shame for BYU fans. Taysom is perhaps the most enjoyable former Cougar in the NFL to watch every Sunday. He lines up all over the field and the Saints have started lining him this year as a traditional running back, not just in a wildcat formation. When Hill gets the ball he just bulldozes defenders with his powerful lower body after recently squatting 685 pounds, a new personal record.
On the season Taysom has appeared in three games with 14 carries for 77 yards and two touchdowns, including nine first downs. He also has two receptions for two yards. He has missed time due to two separate injuries including a chest injury earlier this season and then suffering rib fractures that are currently keeping him sidelined.
The former BYU dual-threat quarterback returned to practice yesterday and was a limited participant. His return this week is still up in the air as the 2-5 Saints look to right the ship. Getting the ball back in Taysom’s hands without having to force feed running back Alvin Kamara will be a boon to New Orleans offense.
BYU fans who enjoy watching former Cougars excel on Sundays continue to wait with baited breath for the returns of Puka Nacua and Taysom Hill.
Thankfully, it looks like both players will soon be returning to action.
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