LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Rams are anticipated to wait until Sunday to make a decision regarding the return of their leading wide receiver, Cooper Kupp, who has been sidelined due to an ankle injury, according to coach Sean McVay.

Kupp has been designated as questionable ahead of the Rams’ upcoming home match against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Super Bowl MVP has not participated in any games since Week 2, during which the Rams are currently struggling, holding a record of 1-4.

After a bye week, Kupp returned to practice, although in a limited capacity, showing signs of progress. Throughout the first two games of the season, he managed to accumulate 18 receptions, even after sustaining his ankle injury during a significant loss to Arizona.

“He’s had a productive week,” McVay remarked from the Rams’ training center in Woodland Hills. “He is developing well, and there’s a chance he’ll be set to play.”

Since the 2021-22 season, Kupp has only participated in 23 out of 39 games. He previously showcased his exceptional skills by leading the NFL in receiving yards, catches, and touchdowns, earning him the triple crown. Additionally, he was awarded the MVP title during the postseason game that took the Rams to victory against Cincinnati.

McVay also suggested that the Rams will weigh the potential repercussions of playing two games within five days on the challenging artificial turf at SoFi Stadium when deciding on Kupp’s participation. The Rams are scheduled to take on the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday night.

“He has been quite vocal regarding the feel of that turf compared to a natural grass surface,” McVay added. “While he appears to be fine running routes, we must also evaluate how he handles real game contact situations.”

The Rams have been without their two top receivers for nearly a month, contributing to their disappointing start under McVay’s leadership. Record-holding rookie Puka Nacua, who sustained a knee injury during the season opener, remains on injured reserve.

It appears that backup offensive lineman Joe Noteboom will not be activated this week, even though he has returned to practice, after suffering an ankle injury in the season opener. Meanwhile, rookie receiver Jordan Whittington is expected to participate in the game despite dealing with a shoulder injury.