LOS ANGELES – Wide receiver Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams has decided to switch from wearing the No. 17 jersey to No. 12, a familiar number he donned during his high school and collegiate years at Washington and BYU.
Previously, Nacua sported the No. 17 jersey during his first two seasons with the Rams, where he delivered an outstanding rookie performance. When he initially joined the Rams in 2023, the No. 12 jersey was occupied by fellow receiver Van Jefferson. Now, Nacua reclaims the number that holds sentimental value to him, shared by several of his brothers throughout their football careers.
Expressing his delight in reverting to No. 12, Nacua regards the number as “a piece of armor” and a symbol of family strength and protection.
With the arrival of Davante Adams to the Rams roster, Nacua willingly relinquishes No. 17 to Adams, who has consistently worn this number during his successful stints with the Green Bay Packers and other teams. Adams, a reputable six-time Pro Bowl and three-time All-Pro athlete, signed a lucrative two-year contract with the Rams, valued up to $46 million.
Nacua has quickly risen as one of the league’s most effective receivers in his initial two seasons. As he prepares to advance further, the anticipated departure of Rams veteran Cooper Kupp—expected to occur either through trade or release this week—may offer Nacua additional opportunities.
Despite being sidelined for six games last season due to injuries and recovery periods, Nacua has amassed 184 receptions, ranking fourth in NFL history over a player’s first two seasons. His 2,476 receiving yards hold the seventh position. He has also contributed significantly in playoffs with 20 catches for 322 yards.
