Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua faced an ejection Sunday after throwing a punch during the team’s 26-20 overtime win against the Seattle Seahawks.
The incident occurred in the second quarter after Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen intercepted a pass from Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, leading to a scuffle between Nacua and Seahawks linebacker Tyrel Dodson.
Nacua reflects on the ejection
Describing the ejection as “a learning experience,” Nacua admitted he allowed his emotions to get the best of him. “There were some things said earlier in the game,” he said, explaining how the exchange escalated. “I knew the play was down after the interception, and he just had some hands on me while I was trying to get blocked off.”
Following the ejection, Nacua watched the remainder of the game from the locker room, where he followed the action on a small television tuned to Fox, with audio from the Seahawks’ broadcast.
Teammates and coaches respond
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, while disappointed, expressed his confidence in Nacua, describing him as “a smart and aware kid.” Stafford acknowledged the frustrations that can arise in intense moments, but said he trusts in Nacua’s ability to learn from this experience.
Head coach Sean McVay echoed Stafford’s sentiments, noting that Nacua’s passion and emotions are a key part of his competitive nature. “One of the best traits that he has is the emotions and the way that he loves competing with his teammates,” McVay said, though he emphasized the need for “controlled aggression.”
Game and season impact
Nacua’s ejection came after he’d made one catch for 11 yards and played 26 of the team’s 30 offensive snaps. Earlier in the season, Nacua had faced a knee injury that kept him on injured reserve for five games, but he returned in Week 8 to lead the team’s receiving efforts.
Following the incident and penalty, the Seahawks scored to take a 13-3 lead by halftime. However, the Rams rallied in the second half, ultimately securing a victory in overtime. McVay, optimistic about Nacua’s growth, referred to the situation as a “learning opportunity” for the young player, reinforcing his confidence in Nacua’s future performances.
