Puka Nacua is an American football wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams of the NFL.
He played college football at Washington and BYU, where he excelled before being drafted by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Puka set rookie records for receiving yards and receptions, earning a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.
Known for his breakout rookie season, his journey to NFL stardom showcases his talent and dedication, making him a key player for the Rams.
Raised in Provo, Utah, Puka attended Orem High School, where he was a standout player before making his mark in college and the NFL.
Siblings
Puka comes from a family with a strong football background.
He has four brothers, including Samson, Isaiah and Kai.
Samson, a receiver, influenced Puka with his fluid playing style, while Isaiah and Kai, who played safety and defensive end respectively, showcased the powerful and rough aspects of the game.
Puka and Samson transferred to BYU to play football together, fulfilling a dream they had discussed during the pandemic while supporting their mother and ailing grandmother in Utah.
Their family faced challenges, with Puka’s father passing away when he was young, leaving his mother, Penina, to raise six children as a single parent.
Despite these difficulties, Penina instilled important life lessons in her children, emphasizing humility and the value of hard work.
The Nacua family’s bond and support have been crucial in shaping Puka’s journey to NFL stardom.
Parents
Puka’s parents are Penina Nacua and the late Lionel Nacua.
Penina has been a pillar of strength for the family, raising six children as a single mother after Lionel’s passing in 2012 due to diabetic complications.
Penina’s unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in shaping Puka’s journey to NFL stardom.
The Nacua family, with a strong football background, has been deeply involved in sports, with three of Penina’s six children pursuing careers in football.
Penina’s emphasis on important life lessons, humility and hard work has been crucial in guiding her children.
Despite the challenges they faced, the Nacua family’s bond and support have played a significant role in Puka’s success both on and off the field.
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College career
Puka began his college football career at the University of Washington before transferring to Brigham Young University (BYU).
At Washington, he played in the first eight games of his freshman season, showcasing his talent with seven receptions for 168 yards and two touchdowns.
During the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season, Puka continued to impress with nine receptions for 151 yards and one touchdown in three games.
Following the 2020 season, he entered the NCAA transfer portal and subsequently transferred to BYU for the 2021 season.
In his first season at BYU, Puka made a significant impact, recording 43 receptions for 805 yards and six touchdowns.
His performance included four games with over 100 receiving yards in the 2021 season, highlighting his skill and contribution to the team.
NFL career
Puka’s NFL career has been marked by impressive achievements.
As a rookie wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, he made a significant impact, setting rookie records for receiving yards and receptions.
Puka’s standout performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.
Throughout his rookie season, he showcased his versatility and skill on the field, combining elements of fluidity and artistry with power and roughness, inspired by his brothers’ playing styles.
Transitioning from a successful college career at Washington and BYU, Puka’s journey to the NFL has been characterized by dedication and talent.
His ability to marry different skill sets has been evident in his gameplay, with notable moments like a twisting catch against the Cleveland Browns in Week 13 that left a lasting impression on fans and coaches alike.
Puka’s impact on the Rams’ passing offense has been significant, proving himself as a valuable asset and a rising star in the NFL.
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