As the 2023 NFL season unfolded, one name became synonymous with explosive performances and record-breaking achievements—Puka Nacua. The rookie wide receiver made headlines with a historic debut season, amassing 105 catches, 1,486 yards, and six touchdowns. In doing so, Nacua etched his name in the annals of NFL history by shattering Bill Groman’s record for rookie receiving yards and Jaylen Waddle’s rookie reception record. But Nacua’s journey to stardom is as compelling as the numbers he posted on the field.
Training with the Best
Nacua’s rookie year success didn’t come by chance. His commitment to following teammate Cooper Kupp’s rigorous off-season training regimen was a key factor. Rams wide receivers coach Eric Yarber reflected on his initial advice to Nacua: “The first thing I wanted him to do was hold on to Cooper Kupp's coattails and train with him and do everything he does. And he took that to heart.”
The dedication was mutual. Cooper Kupp himself acknowledged the challenging start: "He didn't exaggerate. The first few days were pretty rough for him." Yet, it was Nacua’s perseverance that stood out. "He kept coming back, ready to go. That speaks a lot about the guy that Puka is," Kupp added.
From Struggles to Strength
It wasn’t just the grueling workouts that defined Nacua’s transformation. His nutrition underwent a significant overhaul. "My nutrition definitely did change after starting workouts [with Kupp] because I was like, 'Hey, I can't keep showing up at 6 a.m. and throwing up. So I was like maybe I'll wait to eat after,'" Nacua admitted. His resolve to improve his diet led to shedding ten pounds from his 220-pound frame and cutting down on fried foods and staples like rice and taro.
Yarber noticed the results almost immediately: "His body is totally different. He looks just like Cooper [Kupp]. He's lost so much body fat and gained so much lean muscle." Nacua himself echoed this sentiment: "I feel slimmer in my body fat and just feel more firm in the weight I'm at. A little more muscle definition is always nice."
A Season of Highs and Lows
Nacua’s season wasn’t without its challenges. Despite leading the league in drops, he remained resolute about improving his game. "I know I can correct those mistakes and be able to watch the ball in more and snag every ball that comes my way," he asserted. This blend of humility and determination was something his coach, Sean McVay, deeply admired: "There was obviously a lot of accolades that came with the production that he had, but that's accompanied with an authentic humility."
Moments Beyond the Gridiron
Beyond football, Nacua’s charisma and energy were evident in his off-field adventures. The rookie became a familiar face in various sports circles, from riding a Zamboni at a Los Angeles Kings game to dunking at the NBA All-Star celebrity game. He even found time to enjoy courtside seats at a Los Angeles Lakers game and attend an exhibition tennis match featuring Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal. Such experiences underscored his multifaceted personality and love for sports.
Rooted in Family and Future
While Nacua’s achievements have set the stage for a promising NFL career, his family remains a cornerstone of his life. Recently, his youngest brother, Tei Nacua, committed to Brigham Young University (BYU), a move that brought joy to the Nacua family. As Puka continues to train with Kupp and attend early morning sessions, he keeps his focus sharp, aiming to meet and exceed the high standards set by his mentor. "I'm trying to still reach Coop's expectations because he set the standard for us in the wide receiver room," Nacua said.
Reflecting on his rookie season, Nacua remains grounded yet ambitious. "I feel last year was so much fun and I learned a lot, but there's still so much stuff on the table." The NFL awaits to see what comes next from this emerging star, who has already proven that with hard work, resilience, and a touch of humility, the sky is the limit.