Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has been fined $5,424 for his rough behavior during a win against the Seattle Seahawks. The 23-year-old was ejected from the game after throwing a punch at Tyrel Dodson.
Nacua’s punch at Seahawks linebacker Dodson led to his ejection in the second quarter of the 26-20 win. The incident happened during an interception return after Seattle’s Riq Woolen picked off a pass from Matthew Stafford intended for Nacua.
Nacua exited the game with one catch for 11 yards on four targets. In the midst of ongoing discussions, Puka Nacua remains intent on keeping his competitive edge, expressing his commitment to bringing intensity and “packing a punch” against opponents.
After the game, Nacua opened up about his ejection, calling it a “learning experience,” according to Sarah Bishop of ESPN. The second-year wide receiver admitted his emotions got the better of him, leaving him with “a helpless feeling” as he watched the remainder of the game from the locker room.
I think that the phrase that kind of sticks out to me is reacting over responding. That was one thing that Coach [Sean] McVay always talks about is there are going to be ups and downs, but it’s how you respond to those moments that makes it, and it will define you.
Puka Nacua told reporters
After a standout rookie season in 2023, he has struggled with injuries that have limited his production in 2024. Nacua missed five games due to a knee injury after being placed on IR following their season opener against the Detroit Lions. The Nevadan led the team with 106 receiving yards in his Week 8 return against the Minnesota Vikings. Over three games, Nacua has recorded only 162 yards on 12 receptions.
Nacua will now rejoin the lineup as the Rams close out Week 10 with a Monday night home game against the Miami Dolphins. The Rams are currently third in the NFC West and could improve to 5-4. They could potentially contend with the Arizona Cardinals for the top spot.
Puka Nacua and Los Angeles Rams chase first winning record of the season
The Los Angeles Rams are 4-4 to the season. Facing the Dolphins, the Rams chase a winning record. Furthermore, they would look to end a 23-year winless record against the Miami Dolphins.
The Rams have dropped their last five games against the Dolphins. Their most recent victory date back to 2001 when the team was based in St. Louis.
The Rams’ running game showcased one of the most magical comebacks in the latter half of last season. Kyren Williams, who averaged a league-best 95 yards per game and five yards per carry, ranked fourth. This year, his production has dropped to 75 yards per game (11th) and 3.7 yards per carry (41st). Similarly, the absence of Nacua is also visible. The rookie had a standout season, setting new NFL records in his wake.
As the Rams face the Dolphins, Nacua’s charge of only a fine provides a cold relief. He wrapped up the 2023 season with 105 receptions and 1,486 receiving yards, placing him fourth in the league, while starting all 17 games. Nacua broke a 63-year record for most receiving yards in a rookie season as well as most receptions by a rookie in a season in the season finale.
