Sports
This time last year, Puka Nacua was the rookie soaking up every word Cooper Kupp had to offer. Now, he’s the one getting asked the questions.
“There are moments where I’m like, ‘Wait, you’re asking me?'”Nacua said after a recent OTA session. “I still feel like I have a million things to learn.”
Rams’ Puka Nacua shakes defenders like Kyrie Irving and gives a hint about life after the NFL
With Kupp now in Seattle after his surprise release in March, the Rams’ wide receiver room looks very different heading into 2025. But the adjustment has also opened doors – especially for Nacua, who’s quickly learning what it means to be a leader in just his second NFL season.
And he’s not doing it alone.
In March, the Rams signed five-time Pro Bowler Davante Adams in a bold offseason move. Adams brings experience, swagger, and a different type of presence to a young receiver group. “He’s been great,” Nacua said. “Just the way he sees the game – it’s different. I’m picking up something new every day.”
Inside the Room: Leadership Shifts and Rookie Energy
Adams’ leadership is already being felt across the board. Head coach Sean McVay said he’s been impressed by Adams’ ability to absorb the playbook while still mentoring others. “You can see how sharp he is,”McVay said. “He’s learning the system fast and contributing a ton in meetings.”
And while Adams and Nacua are poised to be the Rams’ go-to duo, the supporting cast is still finding its rhythm. Tutu Atwell is back, and rookies Jordan Whittington and Konata Mumpfield are drawing praise early in camp.
The chemistry with Matthew Stafford is developing too – and that dialogue between veteran and QB, according to McVay, is already helping refine the passing game’s identity.
Last season, even with injuries to Kupp and Nacua, Rams receivers led the league in total yards and targets, per ESPN Stats & Info. That production gives this group confidence – even as it evolves.
“I don’t think my role’s changed,” Nacua said. “It’s just more about being myself and stepping into what the team needs.”
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