Since returning to Los Angeles in 2016, the Rams have transformed into a dominant NFL force, making seven postseason appearances, earning multiple NFC Championships, and capturing a Super Bowl title. Central to this sustained success has been the sharpness of the Rams’ draft strategy, particularly highlighted by the emergence of Aaron Donald and Puka Nacua. Their impact illustrates how crucial savvy drafting is to building a lasting legacy in professional football.
Draft Gems Who Changed the Rams’ Fortunes
According to Frank Schwab of Yahoo Sports, Aaron Donald and Puka Nacua rank among the greatest draft steals in NFL history, positioned 17th and 6th respectively over the last 25 years. Donald, the 2014 first-round pick at 13th overall, is widely regarded as
arguably the greatest defensive player of all time
— a label few contest. Meanwhile, Nacua, selected in the fifth round of the 2023 draft, has quickly proven to be
a once-in-a-generation pick for the Rams.
Their vastly different draft stories underscore how unpredictable talent evaluation can be even for top franchises like Los Angeles.
Aaron Donald: Defining Defensive Dominance
When the Rams drafted Aaron Donald, the expectations were high, as first-round selections are often expected to become foundational players, whether as offensive stars or defensive stalwarts. Despite a decorated college career that included a consensus All-American nod and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, some critics, such as Chris Burke from Sports Illustrated, questioned whether Donald’s size would translate at the professional level.
Donald swiftly silenced doubters, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and delivering unforgettable plays, including a critical fourth-down stop in Super Bowl LVI against the Cincinnati Bengals. Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed his admiration bluntly after the game: He is the f’ing man. Today, Donald’s legacy is firmly entrenched within the Rams’ history, making his absence from any team Mount Rushmore nearly impossible to imagine.
Puka Nacua: Rising From Late-Round Underdog to Offensive Star
Puka Nacua’s journey to NFL stardom contrasts sharply with Donald’s, as the fifth-round pick entered the league without the fanfare of a top draft choice. Yet, in his rookie season, Nacua made an immediate mark by setting a new record for most receiving yards by a rookie, displaying a remarkable instinct for impactful plays. His arrival injected fresh excitement into the Rams’ offense, complementing their strategic priorities.
Before the draft, Sean McVay’s excitement was visible, jokingly admitting,
When it was getting down to it, I might’ve choked Les (Snead) out if we had missed out on Puka.
This enthusiasm was justified, as Nacua’s skills—especially his elite yards after catch and effective blocking—fit perfectly with the Rams’ offensive schemes, according to Bleacher Report. Over two seasons, he has climbed into the elite ranks of the league’s pass catchers, ranking seventh all-time in receiving yards and fourth in receptions for players in their first two years. His growing partnership with quarterback Matthew Stafford further cements his role as a vital piece of the team’s long-term vision.
The Lasting Impact and Future of Rams’ Draft Strategy
The stories of Aaron Donald and Puka Nacua highlight the Rams’ ability to uncover and develop extraordinary talent across a variety of draft rounds, reshaping the team’s identity and setting new standards for success. As both players continue to thrive, their evolving careers promise to define the Rams’ competitive edge in the coming years. The organization’s keen eye for talent, combined with effective player development, ensures that their draft strategy will remain a key factor in sustaining their NFL prominence.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Puka Nacua cry?
A. The story is moving: Puka’s dad, Lionel Nacua, passed away due to diabetes when Puka was just 11. Lionel wished for his son to play in the NFL, so every time Puka plays, he thinks of his dad and releases his emotions.
Q. What is Puka Nacua’s nationality?
A. Nacua has roots in Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese cultures. When he was a baby, his size earned him the nickname “Puka,” which means fat and chubby in Samoan. He was raised in Provo, Utah, and went to Orem High School in nearby Orem.
Q. What ethnicity is Puka Nacua?
A. Early Life: Nacua has Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese roots. As a baby, he earned the nickname “Puka,” which means fat and chubby in Samoan because of his size.