Rams Want More From Puka Nacua Before Giving Massive Extension

The Los Angeles Rams‘ biggest non-Aaron Donald question is the status of star wide receiver Puka Nacua, who faces a possible suspension and a payday at the same time.

Nacua is arguably the NFL’s best receiver and one of the biggest headaches for the Rams.

He has a trial coming for his offseason biting incident, which could still result in an NFL suspension. Additionally, Nacua engaged in other off-field activity that sparked controversy, including a livestream with Adin Ross.

The issue is that Nacua, when on the field and healthy, is a monster who catches more passes than someone of his height is expected to, while serving as the best point-of-attack receiver in the league.

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Jul 29, 2026; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) speaks to media after training camp at Loyola Marymount University. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Given his elite level of play, it’s harder for the Rams to dig their heels in and hold out on paying him, since other teams will throw a lot of money at a player like Nacua.

With the off-field and on-field circumstances, Rams insider Nate Aktins of The Athletic thinks a new contract between the Rams and Nacua looks unlikely before the season.

“I think it’s a matter of time until Nacua lands a monstrous extension. I’m not quite at the point of predicting that will come from the Rams, but I know that’s definitely everyone’s hope,” Atkins wrote

“But for such a massive investment, it’s worth it to them to become that much more certain that it’s the right move for their future and their culture. That’s still the hope for everyone, but it’s going to take an ongoing pattern that includes handling the pressures of games in-season in such a pressure-packed year.”

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Jul 31, 2026; Westchester California USA; Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua (12) at training camp at Loyola Marymount University. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Nacua checked into rehab over the offseason, seeking help after a very public spiral, and since then he has worked with the team therapist and, by all accounts, is taking steps to improve his life.

The Rams want to see it hold up over a full season, even if this is the last year of his deal. At worst, the Rams can franchise tag Nacua for a year and see how 2027 goes.

Even if it costs the team more, LA wants to make sure whatever bet they make on Nacua is a good one.