Puka Nacua, Rams WR, doesn’t hold back on NFL referees: “They wanna be on TV too, brother”
The Los Angeles Rams’ star receiver made clear that he has some doubts about the league’s referees.
Los Angeles Rams star Puka Nacua is having a historic season. The Rams receiver ranks second in the league for receiving yards and for total receptions, highlighting his importance to the team.
But Nacua is clearly unhappy with some of the calls that he has had this year and he took aim at NFL referees in a video shared on social media this week.
The 24-year-old appeared on a livestream on Tuesday night alongside streamers Adin Ross and N3on. The trio were talking football and Nacua was asked for his take on the league’s referees.
The Rams star answered: “The refs are the worst... Some of the rules aren’t ... These guys are lawyers and they want to be on TV too. 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.’”
Nacua’s comments will likely land him in hot water with the league. Players in the NFL can face punishment for public remarks made against officials, particularly those which call the integrity of the sport into question. In December 2023 both Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs were fined for their criticism of game officials.
Nacua may argue that his comments were made in jest but the controversial nature of his claims - that referees knowingly call incorrect decisions - has made headlines around the world.
The remarks also serve as an unwanted distraction for the Rams as they prepare for a blockbuster Thursday Night Football game this week. Los Angeles will take on the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday with both teams level on 11-3 records, knowing that the winner will claim first place in the NFC West.
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