After record-setting rookie season, Rams WR Puka Nacua aims to make leap thanks to offseason work

Puka Nacua could have looked at his record-setting rookie season and rested on his laurels.

Nacua knew better, though, and instead of coasting into a complacent offseason, he did the opposite, latching on with teammate Cooper Kupp. After all, who better to learn from than the Super Bowl LVI Most Valuable Player?

“The first thing I wanted him to do is hold on to Cooper Kupp’s coattails and train with him and do everything he does,” Rams receivers coach Eric Yarber explained to ESPN. “And he took that to heart.”

Following an offseason of training with his exceptional teammate, Nacua is once again making an impression within the Rams’ facility.

“His physique has completely transformed,” said Yarber. “He bears a striking resemblance to Cooper now. He’s shed a significant amount of body fat while gaining lean muscle, which has enhanced his ability to move more efficiently. His body control has also improved. He followed my advice to the letter. The results of these changes are evident now.”

Sarah Barshop, in her article for ESPN, explained in detail the extent to which Nacua emulated Kupp. This included grueling 6 a.m. workout sessions that were initially so tough they often led to Nacua throwing up on Kupp’s lawn during the first week. Over time, however, Nacua succeeded in reaching Kupp’s benchmark and received praises from his veteran teammate.

“His continued presence, punctuality, and positive attitude were remarkable. He was always prepared to get down to work,” Kupp conveyed to Barshop. “This speaks volumes about Puka as a person, as he managed to persevere through some significant early challenges and learn from them without missing a beat.”

Throughout the offseason, Nacua mirrored Kupp, making significant adjustments to his diet and shedding about 10 pounds. He now appears to move with greater ease and control over his body, which should yield even more impressive results in his second season.

Yarber commented, “He’s been actively addressing his shortcomings. His body control used to be a weakness. Now, he’s mastered controlling his movements, learned the right way to fall, how to twist his body properly, and always ensures he pivots on the correct foot.”

“But he’s more fundamentally sound now.”

Barshop’s piece is rich in additional detail and superior reporting, delving into the intricacies of Nacua’s first pro offseason. The typical Rams fan would be excited to learn that their emerging receiver has put in significant effort to position himself for even greater success as he enters his second year.

If Nacua’s new standard is a 105-catch, 1,486-yard, six-touchdown season, then his potential is truly limitless moving forward. This remains true even though he will likely draw more attention now, as he is no longer an unknown player on the field.

Indeed, his off-season training should ideally offset the extra scrutiny he is expected to face in 2024. Given Nacua’s proven capability to remain humble despite the accolades, the Rams have all the reasons to be extremely hopeful about the future of the ex-fifth-round selection. This might be just what the doctor ordered for Los Angeles to solidify their unexpected playoff progression, which concluded with a defeat to Detroit during the Super Wild Card Weekend.

“Coach Sean McVay said, “He obviously received many accolades for his production, but it’s accompanied by genuine humility.”

I’ve observed a man who is progressively becoming more professional. He’s taking care of his body, adhering to a stricter diet, working hard, and showing great receptiveness to coaching. Additionally, he’s earning confidence.