Cooper Kupp reveals Puka Nacua's secret to success

Puka Nacua's rookie season has been one for the history books. The 22-year-old wide receiver has been one of the primary reasons the Los Angeles Rams are in playoff contention as the regular season comes to a close. Recently, in an article in the Los Angeles Times, veteran star Cooper Kupp revealed the real secret […]

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Dec 10, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) celebrates with wide receiver Puka Nacua (17) after scoring a second quarter touchdown during the at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Image via Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Puka Nacua's rookie season has been one for the history books.

The 22-year-old wide receiver has been one of the primary reasons the Los Angeles Rams are in playoff contention as the regular season comes to a close. Recently, in an article in the Los Angeles Times, veteran star Cooper Kupp revealed the real secret behind the rookie's success.

“He’s the same dude no matter what,” Kupp said. “And I think that’s been a huge asset for him going through a rookie year that is very up and down — and obviously, way more ups than there were downs.” 

On the year, Nacua has 96 catches — good enough for eight in the league. He also has amassed 1,327 yards, placing him fourth in the league. 

Most recently, Nacua has caught a touchdown to go along with his 164 receiving yards and nine catches against the New Orleans Saints. 

Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (17) celebrates his touchdown scored against the against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (17) celebrates his touchdown scored against the against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at SoFi Stadium.Feature image via Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

It marked a top-notch performance in a game that allowed the Rams to control much of their own NFL Playoff destiny. 

Nacua has earned the respect of the veterans in the locker room. He has also earned Sean McVay's trust. 

"He's really special," McVay, said per ESPN's Sarah Barshop. "But the best part about him is, he doesn't worry about those things. He worries about just being a great teammate, continuing to improve his game. [I] sure love this team. And he's one of those guys that you really love."

In any other season, Nacua would be a lock for Offensive Rookie of the Year. However, with C.J. Stroud also in the rookie class, Nacua may have to settle for second in voting.

Behind his success, however, is a spirit of unwavering relentlessness. Kupp admitted so.