Last year, Rams fans were just learning how to pronounce Puka Nacua’s first name during training camp.
But they quickly got the hang of it and chanted his name often throughout Nacua’s impressive rookie season.
As the Rams finished their third training camp practice at Loyola Marymount on Saturday, Nacua received the most cheers and autograph requests. “It is definitely not like training camp last year in the best way,” Nacua said.
Nacua had a historic rookie season, setting records with 105 receptions, 1,486 yards, and six touchdowns. He was also a finalist for the Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year award. His season included seven games with over 100 yards and five games with at least eight receptions.
From what has been seen in the first week of training camp, Nacua doesn’t seem to be facing any sophomore slump.
On Saturday, Nacua made a couple of impressive catches against cornerback Tre’Davious White, whom the Rams signed from Buffalo in the offseason.
“He’s very smart. He understands motions, and depending on where we’re lined up, he knows he can eliminate certain routes,” Nacua said about White.
“I know my strengths and they don’t really work against him because he’s great in the mental game before I get to be a physical player with him. So, it’s been super fun because now I get to work on some of the different tools that me and Cooper (Kupp) are working on.”
Nacua’s main focus during training camp is to reduce dropped passes. He had six drops last season, which was tied for eighth in the NFL.
Nacua mentioned that he has a habit of looking around before securing the ball.
“I’m trying to make sure I watch it all the way into my gloves and snag that ball and protect it,” he said.
Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur has also noticed that Nacua’s physique has improved after a full offseason of training with Kupp. Nacua mentioned that he has cut back on trips to McDonald’s and lost five pounds from his playing weight last season.
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