“Every morning is exciting when I come in here and can say hi to Matthew [Stafford] and Cooper Kupp,” exclaimed Puka Nacua warmly last season. Their bond remained undeniable throughout 2024 as an impressive quarterback/wide receiver pair; as speculation surfaced that Los Angeles Rams might move on from Stafford this off-season speculation subsided; now there has been definitive answer given.
Puka Nacua’s tweet in an airport terminal with the words, “Lets Do it!! Love Ya 9,” transcended being just an update; rather it marked an exclamatory play within their group chat and served to seal any off-season speculation in NFL circles. Following his outstanding rookie campaign that yielded record performances by Los Angeles Rams receiver Brandin Cooks – including record breaking rookie season performance by emerging Rams star receiver Brandin Cooks (coming off record breaking performances himself!), Puka sealed any doubt regarding NFL off-season speculation. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford remains committed while Puka shows unwavering support by showing his message of his support as she also stands with him unwavering support as she makes up one half of Los Angeles Rams teammates (Puka can never leaves).
“Yo. I’m currently sitting at the airport. I just barely missed my flight to Salt Lake City, but we just signed Matthew Stafford. Hey. Number nine is back,” shared Nacua. Reflecting back on 2023, Nacua’s entry into the NFL was nothing short of meteoric. Selected in the fifth round, the 6’2” wide receiver didn’t just set new rookie records; he obliterated them. With 105 receptions for 1,486 yards, his debut season stats seemed almost like a glitch in the system.
By Week 12, he had surpassed every previous Rams rookie receiver in history, becoming the first to surpass 1,000 yards. On the other side, Stafford served as the veteran guide, amassing 59,809 career passing yards and 377 touchdowns. In 2024, despite father time’s relentless pressure, Stafford maintained a 65.8% completion rate, throwing for 3,762 yards.
During a crucial moment in Week 4 against the Colts, with overtime tensions high, Stafford threw a 22-yard touchdown to Nacua—his first in the NFL. Stafford’s pride in their performance was evident, likening it to a joyous parent witnessing their child’s success.
This story goes beyond the typical feel-good narrative; it’s about mutual respect and effectiveness on the field. Nacua’s 2024 stats (79 catches, 990 yards, 3 TDs) and Stafford’s commitment, even in the face of substantial offers from the Giants and Raiders, highlight a deep-rooted loyalty. The Rams’ ethos, “We Not Me,” encapsulates the essence of their partnership.
The Culture That Binds Stafford to LA
The Rams represent more than just a football team; they’re a community influenced by head coach Sean McVay’s unique approaches and philosophies. Stafford’s decision to stay with the Rams, over potentially more lucrative deals, speaks volumes of the culture and the bond within the team. Having led the Lions for a decade and bringing a Super Bowl victory to LA in 2021, Stafford is integral to the Rams, bridging the gap between up-and-coming talents and established veterans.
The Rams also stand out for how they integrate and celebrate diversity, from Black History Month murals to collaborations with local artists during Latino Heritage Month, showcasing a franchise that values both legacy and performance.
2024 proved their perseverance, recording an 11-7 mark with an unforgettable playoff run led by Nacua’s standout performances and Stafford’s steady leadership, evidenced not just of rebuilding but reloading for future triumph.
Nacua and Stafford represent an inspiring partnership in an environment in which long-term commitment to teammates can often be sparse; their story shows unity, dedication, and an unyielding commitment that stands the test of time in any sport or competition they pursue together.