The Los Angeles Rams could be preparing to target a wide receiver in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, as concerns surrounding Puka Nacua’s off-field behavior begin to cloud his otherwise stellar on-field performance.
Nacua, 24, is coming off a breakout 2025 campaign in which he led the league with 129 receptions and averaged 107.2 receiving yards per game. He also posted career highs with 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns—firmly establishing himself as one of the NFL’s top young receivers.
Draft Strategy Shifts Amid Uncertainty
Despite that production, analysts believe the Rams are increasingly focused on reinforcing their receiving corps.
Mina Kimes of ESPN suggested Los Angeles could make an aggressive move up the draft board—potentially trading with the Cincinnati Bengals to climb from the No. 13 pick to No. 10.
“The Rams are a little worried about the future at receiver right now,” Kimes said, noting that uncertainty around Nacua and the aging curve of Davante Adams—who is entering his age-34 season—could push the team toward selecting a receiver early.
Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah and Kimes both pointed to Jordyn Tyson, a standout from Arizona State, as a potential target.
Off-Field Issues Raise Red Flags
Nacua’s off-field conduct became a growing storyline throughout the 2025 season.
Incidents included live-streaming from the locker room after a Week 14 win, inviting controversial streamers to team facilities, and making an antisemitic gesture during a livestream appearance. He later issued a public apology, stating he was unaware of the gesture’s meaning.
Tensions also surfaced with head coach Sean McVay, who reportedly disapproved of some of Nacua’s actions.
Following a December loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Nacua drew further attention by publicly criticizing referees on social media.
Situation Escalates in Offseason
According to The Athletic reporter Jourdan Rodrigue, a team source confirmed that Nacua checked himself into a private care facility in March.
While the Rams initially downplayed concerns during the season—opting not to suspend or discipline him—their stance has reportedly hardened in recent weeks.
“The Rams made it clear publicly and even more firmly behind the scenes that Nacua will have to correct his off-field behavior to earn the type of contract his league-leading play would typically merit,” Rodrigue reported.
Contract Stakes and Market Pressure
Nacua is now eligible for a contract extension, but uncertainty around his situation comes at a pivotal moment for the wide receiver market.
Recently, Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seahawks reset the market with a massive four-year, $168.6 million deal—raising the stakes for elite receivers seeking new contracts.
Draft Outlook
The Rams currently hold the 13th overall pick after trading down from No. 29 in a deal with the Kansas City Chiefs to acquire All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie.
With roster uncertainty growing and expectations high, the Rams’ draft strategy could hinge on balancing Nacua’s elite talent with long-term reliability concerns.
The 2026 NFL Draft is set to take place in Pittsburgh from April 23 to April 25, where Los Angeles could make one of the most closely watched decisions of the first round.
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