“Still trying to reach Coop’s expectations”: Puka Nacua’s pursuit of excellence mirrors Cooper Kupp’s standard

The Los Angeles Rams are gearing up for another season, and Puka Nacua is doubling down on his efforts to elevate his performance. He is on a mission to emulate the excellence of his teammate, Cooper Kupp.

Nacua’s offseason training regimen alongside Kupp provided him with valuable insights into the dedication and commitment required to reach the pinnacle of success in the NFL. He recently reflected on Kupp’s extraordinary accolades while acknowledging the lofty standard set by his veteran counterpart.

“I feel like I’m still trying to reach Coop’s expectations. Because he set the standard for us in the wide receiver room and for a lot of receivers in the NFL. I mean, to be the triple-crown winner. I just mentioned it to him not too long ago, I don’t know how wide receivers have won a Super Bowl MVP … The standard is still set very high, and I don’t think I’m close to reaching it”, Nacua said via Overtime Heroics.

Kupp’s led the league in 2021 in receptions, receiving touchdowns, and receiving yards despite missing several games due to injury. His historic triple-crown achievement has solidified his status as a role model not only within the Rams organization but across the entire NFL.

The prospect of a healthy Kupp, complemented by an improving Nacua, will be a huge boost for quarterback Matthew Stafford. The Rams are poised to maintain their dominance in their division in their first season without veteran Aaron Donald.

Puka Nacua’s incredible rookie season with the Rams

Puka Nacua has set the field ablaze with his electrifying performances in the 2023 season. He shattered rookie expectations and enjoyed one of the finest rookie season with 105 receptions, 1486 yards, and six touchdowns. His 1,486 receiving yards have etched his name in NFL history, surpassing the previous rookie record held by Bill Gorman since 1960.

What makes the rookie sensation’s feat even more impressive is the context in which it was achieved. In a season characterized by subdued passing metrics league-wide, his standout performances shine all the brighter. The young star consistently delivered on the field, and averaged an impressive 14.2 yards per reception. He racked up seven games with over 100 yards receiving, including three games with over 150 yards.

Puka Nacua’s meteoric rise from a fifth-round draft pick to one of the NFL’s most prolific receivers is surely an example of his immense potential. Hopefully, the receiver will continue this performance in the upcoming season as well.