Puka Nacua’s Livestream Comments Spark Controversy, Rams Stay Focused on the Field
Puka Nacua has been one of the NFL’s breakout stars this season-a dynamic rookie with a nose for the football and a knack for making big plays. But this week, the spotlight shifted off the field, and not for the right reasons.
The Rams wide receiver found himself in hot water after appearing on a livestream with popular internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on. During the stream, Nacua made a series of comments that quickly drew backlash, including one particularly troubling statement in which he said he would perform a touchdown celebration that he later acknowledged in an apology as being "antisemitic in nature."
The Rams, aware of the situation, reportedly intervened before Nacua could bring the streamers to team facilities. But the damage was done-his remarks were broadcast live and quickly circulated online, drawing criticism and forcing the rookie to issue a public apology.
Despite the controversy swirling around him, Nacua suited up for the Rams’ Thursday Night Football matchup against the Seahawks, and the team showed no signs of distraction. Veteran broadcaster Al Michaels addressed the situation on the Prime Video broadcast, noting that Nacua had “made a couple of headlines” and “said some stuff he shouldn’t have on a livestream.” Michaels added that the Rams organization viewed the incident as a case of “naiveté,” suggesting Nacua didn’t fully grasp the weight of his words.
Kirk Herbstreit echoed that sentiment, framing the moment as a potential learning opportunity for the young receiver. “Hopefully he learns from this mistake,” Herbstreit said. “He’s a great guy… every step he’s taken as a Ram has been first class.”
Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit address the Puka Nacua situation on the Rams-Seahawks TNF Prime Video broadcast. #NFL #TNF https://t.co/lNK0yDh4q2 pic.twitter.com/eApixbHgDC
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) December 19, 2025
Michaels also shared a lighthearted personal anecdote, revealing he’d had dinner with Nacua earlier this year and that the two bonded over their shared dislike of vegetables. It was a brief but telling moment-highlighting the human side of a player now facing a very public misstep.
For the Rams, the focus remains on football. And for Nacua, this week serves as a reminder that being a professional athlete means more than just producing on Sundays. It means understanding the platform, the responsibility, and the impact of every word-especially when the cameras are rolling.