Puka Nacua’s breakout season didn’t just turn heads-it may have just rewritten the timeline for wide receiver contracts in the NFL. After the Rams’ tough NFC Championship loss to the Seahawks, the immediate question wasn’t about what went wrong.
It was about what’s next. And right now, all signs point to Nacua being the centerpiece of that conversation.
Let’s be clear: what Nacua did in 2025 wasn’t just impressive-it was historic. In just his second NFL season, the 24-year-old wideout put up video game numbers: 129 receptions, 1,715 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns over 16 games. That’s elite production in every major receiving category, and he did it while carrying a Rams offense that leaned heavily on his ability to create separation, make contested catches, and turn short gains into big plays.
And he didn’t slow down once the postseason hit. In three playoff games, Nacua racked up 24 catches for 332 yards and two touchdowns-showing the same consistency and explosiveness on the biggest stage. His performance was a major reason the Rams stayed in the title hunt until the final whistle of the NFC Championship.
The accolades followed. Nacua earned first-team All-Pro honors and secured his second Pro Bowl selection-all while playing on a rookie deal that’s one of the biggest bargains in the league: four years, $4 million. Drafted in the fifth round back in 2023, Nacua has already outperformed most first-round receivers, and he’s done it with a relentless work ethic and a knack for rising to the moment.
Now, the clock is ticking. Nacua has one year left on that rookie contract, and if the Rams don’t lock him up, he’s set to hit free agency after the 2026 season.
But don’t expect it to get that far. Teams simply don’t let players like this walk.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the Rams are preparing to offer Nacua a massive extension-reportedly four years, $156 million, with a staggering $90 million guaranteed at signing. That would be the highest guaranteed money ever given to a wide receiver, eclipsing Justin Jefferson’s $88.7 million deal with the Vikings. And while Ja’Marr Chase still holds the top spot in total contract value at $161 million, Nacua’s deal would put him right in that elite financial tier.
From a roster-building standpoint, the Rams are in a good spot to make this kind of move. They don’t currently have any $100 million contracts on the books. Quarterback Matthew Stafford’s $84 million deal is their largest, which gives them the flexibility to invest heavily in their young superstar.
And make no mistake-Nacua is now the Rams’ top priority. He’s more than just a dynamic playmaker.
He’s a foundational piece for a franchise that’s looking to stay competitive in a loaded NFC. His age, production, and leadership make him the kind of player you build around-and pay accordingly.
The Rams know what they have. And after a season like this, it’s clear they’re ready to show it-with a contract that matches the impact Nacua has already made.