Puka Nacua addressed reporters after checking into a Malibu rehab facility in March. He said he learned it is acceptable to ask for support and to use his platform as a professional football player to improve himself and others. Nacua’s comments came as the Rams prepare for a Super Bowl LXI run with an offense featuring Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams and a defense including Jared Verse and Trent McDuffie. Nacua led the NFL with 129 receptions and earned All-Pro honors last season. He is in the final year of his rookie contract and could qualify for an extension exceeding $120 million, but off-field incidents led the Rams to delay negotiations and consider options such as a future franchise tag.
"Something that I feel like I've learned is, it's OK to ask for support. And then to recognize the platform that I have in being a professional football player, and trying to use that for the betterment of myself and for those around me."
"Nacua sought help after a string of incidents, which included a December incident that led to a civil lawsuit. Nacua on Thursday addressed reporters for the first time since checking into a Malibu rehab facility in March."
"Last season, Nacua led the NFL with 129 receptions and was voted All-Pro. The 2023 fifth-round draft pick is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and he is eligible for an extension that could surpass the $120-million deal the Seattle Seahawks gave receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba."
"But incidents last season and this offseason caused the Rams to put off talks about awarding Nacua an extension. With Nacua eligible for a mammoth extension, the Rams may slow-play negotiations, even considering a future franchise tag."
Read at Los Angeles Times
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