Los Angeles Rams Poll: Can Puka Nacua Sustain His Rookie Year Performance with Cooper Kupp Back?

As the Los Angeles Rams gear up for the 2024 NFL season, one of the most intriguing questions revolves around second-year wide receiver Puka Nacua .

Nacua burst onto the scene in 2023, delivering an impressive rookie campaign that saw him haul in 105 receptions for 1,486 yards and 6 touchdowns. His performance was a beacon of hope in a receiver room without the former Triple Crown winner. But with star receiver Cooper Kupp expected to return fully healthy, can Nacua maintain his production?

The Rookie Sensation

Puka Nacua was a revelation in his debut season. Drafted in the fifth round out of BYU, Nacua quickly became a favorite target for quarterback Matthew Stafford . His ability to find soft spots in defenses, combined with sure hands and deceptive speed, allowed him to carve out a significant role in Sean McVay’s offense. Nacua’s 105 receptions set a new rookie record, and his 1,486 receiving yards were among the top in the entire league​.

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The Return Of Cooper Kupp

Cooper Kupp, the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, missed significant time in 2023 due to injuries. Despite this, Kupp still managed to record 59 catches for 737 yards and 5 touchdowns in 12 games. A healthy Kupp is one of the most dynamic receivers in the league, and his presence on the field demands attention from opposing defenses.

The Impact On Puka Nacua

With Kupp back in the lineup, the dynamics of the Rams’ passing attack will inevitably shift. Kupp is Stafford’s go-to guy, especially in critical situations. This could mean fewer targets for Nacua, who thrived as the primary option during Kupp’s absence.

During Kupp’s absence, Nacua’s average targets per game were about 7 vs 10+ without him in the lineup. The same can not be said for his yards per reception, as those averages increased from 10 to 15 and 20 yards per reception making him more efficient per catch.

With Kupp drawing double teams and top cornerbacks, Nacua could find himself in more favorable matchups. Nacua could benefit from this, finding new ways to contribute even with Kupp on the field, including jet sweeps.

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What The Numbers Say

Looking at the Rams’ offensive stats from 2023, they averaged 246.2 passing yards per game, ranking 10th in the league. With both Kupp and Nacua healthy, the Rams have the potential to field one of the most potent receiving duos in the NFL. If Stafford can stay healthy and the offensive line holds up, there’s ample opportunity for both receivers to thrive.

Puka Nacua’s ability to maintain his rookie year pace with a healthy Cooper Kupp on the field will depend on several factors, including his own continued development, the health of key players like Stafford, and the overall effectiveness of the Rams’ offense. However, given his talent and the advantageous situations created by Kupp’s presence, there is a strong possibility that Nacua can not only keep up but potentially exceed his rookie-year performance. Rams fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic about their receiving corps heading into the 2024 season.

Poll: Los Angeles Rams Receiving Corps Outlook

We want to hear from you! How do you think the Rams’ receiving corps will perform this season with a healthy Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua? Cast your vote and share your thoughts.

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