Puka Nacua went from a relative unknown to most football fans in April to becoming one of the brightest young stars in the sport, all in a matter of less than a year. That’s what happens when you put together the best rookie season ever by a wide receiver, setting records for the most receptions and yards by a first-year player, as well as the most receiving yards by a rookie in a playoff game.
He caught nine passes for 181 yards and a touchdown on Sunday night against the Lions, further cementing his place as a top receiver in the NFL regardless of age or experience. Fans can’t get enough of him and neither can Sean McVay.
After the Rams’ 24-23 loss to Detroit, McVay raved about his outstanding young receiver, calling him a stud and a warrior who will be a great player for a long time.
“He’s a freakin stud,” McVay said emphatically. “He’s just a great competitor, he shows up big, he makes plays, he’s tough to tackle, he can work edges and win and separate, he can finish. This guy’s a freakin’ warrior and he is a stud. I love the mindset and mentality that he has. If he just continues to stay humble and keeps working, this guy’s going to be a problem for a long time.”
.@AsapPuka "is a freakin' warrior… This guy is going to be a problem for a long time." pic.twitter.com/1pFANWnMQu
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) January 15, 2024
Nacua has received rave reviews from his teammates and coaches all year, with fans piling on the praise all year. He was excellent from start to finish, beginning his career with 10 catches and 119 yards in Week 1 and capping it off with a nine-catch, 181-yard showing in his final game.
It’s hard to get much better than that.