The Los Angeles Rams acquired Puka Nacua this season to bolster their offensive lineup with youthful talent. As the 20th wide receiver selected in the 2023 draft, he made headlines by setting a record for the most receptions in a game by a rookie wide receiver.
One name that will undoubtedly be mentioned in connection with his success is his father, Lionel Nacua. With Lionel’s steadfast support, Puka has not only gained recognition but has also inspired his other two siblings to pursue football careers.
Meeting Puka Nacua’s brothers Kai, Samson
Before joining the Rams, the rookie wide receiver enjoyed a remarkable career at BYU, where he played from 2021 to 2022 and participated in 21 games. In addition to Puka Nacua, his two older brothers, Samson Nacua and Kai Nacua, also played for the university. Kai, from 2013 to 2016, played as a defensive back for BYU.
While Puka and Samson both excel as wide receivers, Kai chose a different path, playing as a safety and defensive back. Among the Nacua brothers, Kai was the first to secure an NFL contract, although he faced challenges establishing a successful career in the league and recently signed with the USFL’s Michigan Panthers this year.
Samson, another older brother, was a well-known figure in Utah before transferring from BYU to the Cougars in 2021. After the 2022 NFL Draft, he joined the Indianapolis Colts as a free-agent wide receiver last season. Unfortunately, the three brothers’ inspiration, their father Lionel, passed away in 2012 at the age of 45 as a result of complications from diabetes.
Puka Nacua’s season so far with the Rams
Puka Nacua appears to be on the path to potentially becoming an NFL legend, in contrast to his older brother’s challenges in fulfilling their father’s hopes for them. The Rams’ wide receiver has excelled in his debut season, drawing inspiration from his father.
In his first game, he had 10 receptions for 119 yards against the Seattle Seahawks. Even though the Rams lost to the San Francisco 49ers in the game, his second game in the NFL was more impressive than his first. The 22-year-old had 15 receptions and reeled in 147 yards in addition.
Puka was hurt in an oblique during Los Angeles’ Week 2 loss, but he was still able to play for the Rams in their Week 3 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Rams lost that night, their second defeat of the year, but the receiver did not fall short of what his team needed from him.
However, Puka must possess great grief on his mind because his father was never able to witness his son’s success in college or the NFL.
