SALT LAKE CITY – Puka Nacua, the former BYU star and now a key Puka Nacua LA Rams receiver, arrived at the Rams training camp in high spirits and ready to compete. His arrival was marked by a playful moment reminiscent of Mario Kart as he prepared to take on opponents with the same determination he shows on the field.
The Rams shared a lighthearted photo of Nacua, hinting at his readiness to outmaneuver defenders much like a racer laying down a banana peel on the track.
Record-Breaking Talent Behind the Receiver’s Growing Reputation
Known for his charismatic personality off the field and excellence catching passes, Nacua closed the 2025 NFL season as the highest graded receiver according to Pro Football Focus. His impact on the league was immediate, having shattered the NFL rookie record for receiving yards in 2023 with 1,486 yards, a record that stood for over six decades after being set by Bill Gorman.
From Utah Roots to NFL Stardom
Puka Nacua’s journey began in Provo, Utah, and as a standout at Orem High School, he set several state records that marked his early promise. After high school, he played for two seasons at the University of Washington with the Huskies before returning home to BYU, where he emerged as a star player.
During his time with the Cougars, Nacua recorded 91 receptions for 1,430 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also contributed significantly on the ground, adding 357 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 39 carries. His collegiate success culminated in the Rams selecting him in the fifth round, 177th overall, in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Utah’s Impact on the NFL and Continued Local Support
Locals like Nacua have strengthened Utah’s presence in the NFL, and KSL Sports has consistently covered players with ties to the state. Whether emerging from local high schools, BYU, or the University of Utah, these athletes continue to make their mark on football’s biggest stage.
Fans can keep up with news on these Utah connections through ongoing coverage including highlights, trades, and updates about their performance in the NFL.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Puka Nacua cry?
A. Puka’s father, Lionel Nacua, passed away from diabetes when Puka was just 11. Lionel had wished for his son to play in the NFL. Whenever Puka plays, memories of his dad flood back, and his emotions surge.
Q. What is Puka Nacua’s nationality?
A. Nacua comes from Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese backgrounds. As a baby, he was nicknamed “Puka,” which means fat and chubby in Samoan. He was raised in Provo, Utah, and went to Orem High School in Orem, Utah.
Q. Is Puka Nacua actually good?
A. Last season, Nacua ranked third among all receivers for passes thrown behind the line of scrimmage, scoring 93.6. Only Zay Flowers (93.8) and Khalil Shakir (93.7) scored higher. His skill in gaining yards after catching the ball helped him achieve this high score.
Q. Is Puka Nacua an ethnicity?
A. Nacua comes from Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese heritage. His family gave him the nickname “Puka,” which means fat and chubby in Samoan, because he was a large baby. He was raised in Provo, Utah, and went to Orem High School in nearby Orem, Utah.