How Puke Nacua Gained Matthew Stafford’s Trust on the Rams Team
The Los Angeles Rams’ fifth-round draft pick of 2023, Puka Nacua, has exceeded all expectations. Drafted from BYU, Nacua’s rookie performance surprised the league.
The Trust Connection with Matthew Stafford
Nacua quickly gained the trust of Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. He attributes this trust to their first game together against the Seattle Seahawks.
Week 1: A Turning Point
- Nacua missed his first target in their debut game.
- He adapted during an RPO route, catching 10 passes for 119 yards.
- This performance reinforced their connection.
The understanding between Nacua and Stafford has since evolved significantly. It’s a key factor in Nacua’s successful integration into the Rams’ offense.
Record-Breaking Performance
In his rookie season, Nacua set a new record for receiving yards at 1,486. Through five games in the current season, he leads the league in receptions and yards, with totals of 52 and 588, respectively.
If Nacua maintains this pace, he could potentially surpass Calvin Johnson’s single-season record of 1,964 receiving yards—a record set with Stafford in 2012.
A Promising Future
- Nacua’s ongoing performance suggests he is a pivotal part of the Rams’ strategy.
- He remains a favorite and trusted target for Stafford.
This trust and performance have marked Nacua as a rising star on the Rams team, helping to solidify his position in the league.
