Rams’ Puka Nacua Fined $25,000 After Renewed Criticism of NFL Officials Following Narrow Loss
SEATTLE, Wash. — Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua delivered a career-best performance on Thursday night, hauling in 12 receptions for 225 yards and two touchdowns in a thrilling overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Yet the standout game was marred by controversy as Nacua was fined $25,000 by the NFL for publicly criticizing game officials.
Earlier in the week, Nacua had apologized for previous remarks disparaging referees, but frustration boiled over again after the narrow 38-37 defeat. The third-year pro took to social media platform X to issue a veiled jab at the officials, writing, “Can you say I was wrong. Appreciate you stripes for your contribution. Lol.” He clarified that his comments stemmed from a moment of frustration following an intense contest.
“It was just a lack of awareness and just some frustration,” Nacua told reporters. “I know there were moments where I feel like, ‘Man, you watch the other games and you think of the calls that some guys get and you wish you could get some of those.’ But that’s just how football has played, and I’ll do my job in order to work my technique to make sure that there’s not an issue with the call.”
However, this was not the first time Nacua expressed skepticism about officiating. Days earlier, during a livestream with internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on, he asserted that “the refs are the worst,” accusing some officials of making calls to increase their television exposure. “Some of the rules aren’t… these guys want to be… these guys are lawyers. They want to be on TV too,” he said, according to ESPN. “You don’t think he’s texting his friends in the group chat like, ‘Yo, you guys just saw me on ‘Sunday Night Football.’ That wasn’t P.I., but I called it.’”
The NFL has strict policies regarding player conduct and public criticism of officiating. The league’s decision to fine Nacua $25,000 was confirmed by the NFL Network, underscoring the seriousness with which the organization views such comments.
Despite the off-field distractions, Nacua’s on-field contributions were pivotal. His 225 receiving yards marked a personal best, and his two touchdowns kept the Rams competitive against the Seahawks, who secured the NFC’s top spot with the victory. The game was a showcase of Nacua’s emerging talent and importance to the Rams’ offense.
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has often praised Nacua’s work ethic and skill, and the receiver’s ability to bounce back from adversity will be critical as the team pursues a playoff berth. The NFL’s disciplinary action, however, serves as a reminder of the league’s emphasis on maintaining respect for officials.
For more on NFL policies and player conduct, visit the NFL Players Association and the league’s official Football Operations page.
As the Rams regroup from the narrow loss, all eyes will be on Nacua’s next moves both on and off the field, balancing his passion for the game with the league’s expectations for professionalism.
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