Rams’ Puka Nacua Makes All-Pro Team Despite Injury-Hit Season

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Rams‘ sophomore wide receiver Puka Nacua earned his first career All-Pro selection for the 2024 season, despite missing significant time due to injury. The Pro Football Focus (PFF) All-Pro team recognized Nacua as the flex receiver, highlighting his versatility and impact on the field.

Nacua, a fifth-round pick from BYU in 2023, set rookie records for receptions and yards last season. However, his second year was marred by an early injury that sidelined him for several games. The Rams struggled initially, starting the season 1-4, but Nacua’s return in Week 8 against the Minnesota Vikings marked a turning point. He recorded seven receptions for 106 yards in that game, finishing the season with just under 1,000 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

“Nacua doesn’t quite have the volume of some of the other top receivers in football, having missed some time in the first half of the season. Still, his 93.0 receiving grade ranked first at the position, and he averaged 3.56 yards per route run,” PFF said in their evaluation.

Nacua’s inclusion on the All-Pro team is particularly notable given the competition. He joined elite company, including Ja'Marr Chase, who became the youngest player to achieve the Triple Crown in receiving. Nacua’s ability to excel as a YAC (yards after catch) monster, slot receiver, and deep threat made him indispensable to the Rams’ offense.

The Rams finished the season 7-3 with Nacua back in the lineup, pairing him with veteran Cooper Kupp to create one of the league’s most dynamic receiving duos. The team now looks to build on this momentum as they enter the playoffs, aiming to replicate their 2022 Super Bowl success.

Other Rams players received votes for All-Pro honors but fell short of making the final cut. Rookie defensive tackle Kobie Turner garnered three votes, while punter Ethan Evans received six votes, including two first-place nods. Special teams standout Michael Hoecht, who blocked three kicks this season, also earned three votes.

Despite the lack of first-team All-Pro selections, the Rams’ performance in the latter half of the season has reignited hopes for a deep playoff run. With Nacua and Kupp leading the charge, the team’s offense remains a formidable force.