Puka Nacua, the breakout rookie receiver for the Los Angeles Rams He went from watching the Green Bay Packers as a fan to playing on the same field with his childhood hero, Davante Adams. Earlier this year, Nacua’s remarkable journey took a truly incredible turn. He was at the wedding of fellow Rams teammate Kobie Turner in March when he took a fateful call from Rams head coach Sean McVay. That moment really just continued what had been an incredible summer for Nacua as he ramped up for his third NFL campaign.
Nacua is unambiguously infatuated with Adams. It was surreal for Meyer to see him in person — especially on the same field — during the Rams’ organized team activities (OTAs) last April. “It didn’t feel real when I showed up and saw Davante Adams,” Nacua shared, reflecting on the mix of excitement and disbelief he experienced. He was born and raised a Packers fan. Now, to work next to one of his favorite players for a living, it’s like a fairy tale!
Between the spring and summer programs, Nacua has made every effort to work under Adams to get up close to the super supporters of receivers. Later, he’d compliment Adams’ route running skills and overall grasp of the game, regularly peppering him with questions about route trees. “Oh, what was your reaction to that,” Nacua said when reflecting on the conversations they’ve had. He knows that studying under Adams will take his artistic ability to the next level. He seems most intent on developing his overall body control and sense of rotational defender awareness.
Between running wide receiver drills and running his own plays, it’s tough sledding for Nacua. He’s figured out how to make the most of the time! “When I was in the front, I’m trying to sprint as fast as I can so I can turn around and watch him,” Nacua explained. He even joked about his desire for Adams to lead first during some drills, saying, “Hey, I think it’ll make my job a little bit easier if you just go first.”
Fellow rookie head coach Sean Payton of the Broncos noted Nacua’s potential and praised his abilities on the field. “He’s got good feet. He’s got great hands and an ability to be tough and run with the ball after the catch. He’s really an extremely well-rounded receiver,” Adams said. Their camaraderie has evolved into a deep mutual respect that transcends the field.
With their on-field chemistry fully developed, both players have been huge additions to the Rams’ offense. In Week 2 of this young season, Nacua had a record-breaking game. He had 10 receptions for 130 yards and a scintillating 45-yard touchdown run. The duo accounted for an eye-popping 242 total yards in their upset over the Tennessee Titans. Their offensive performance was a glimpse at the dynamic playmaker duo that has showcased the talent today.
Nacua has praised Adams for his openness to sharing guidance in meetings. “What we want our quarterbacks to do in the meeting room, obviously he does a great job in there,” he explained. It’s obvious he appreciates the teaching moments his older teammate offers.
Rams QB Matthew Stafford, who has witnessed the friendship between Nacua and Adams up close, has seen their mutual respect for each other. And the cool thing is, [they] cheer for each other. Stafford continued, “When Tae scores a touchdown, nobody is more excited than Puka. He really pointed out the good energy that’s grown in that locker room.
With Nacua learning and honing his game under Adams’ tutelage, he’s just locked in on getting better every day. He acknowledges that watching tape together provides valuable insights into how he can refine his game further. Nacua couldn’t contain his excitement about being able to watch tape. He’s passionate about learning new ways to improve his craft!
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