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For just the second time in his NFL career, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is facing the reality of a league-imposed fine. NFL Network reported that the third-year receiver was fined $25,000 after criticizing officials during a viral live stream and social media post.
On Friday, the 24-year-old man spoke about this expensive sentence, admitting that it is difficult.
“That one is really painful,” Nacua told reporters in his first public comments since receiving the fine.
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He added that the fine was a lesson.
“I think it was something I expected,” he said. “It was a time of learning and experience to learn from and let’s not let it happen again.
Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams reacts during the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at SoFi Stadium Sept. 28, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
“There will be moments of frustration later in my career, whether it’s ups and downs on my personal part or on the part of the team. So, being able to control those emotions and channel that energy in the right way.”
Nacua raised eyebrows when he said during an appearance with internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on that “inspectors are the worst.”
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He also sparked controversy during a live broadcast when he appeared to perform an act that played on antisemitic tropes. He later apologized.
“I had no idea that this act was anti-Semitic and perpetuates harmful views against Jewish people,” the recipient said in an Instagram post. “I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions as I do not stand for any kind of prejudice, bigotry or hatred of another group of people.”
Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams reacts after a third-quarter catch against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field Dec. 18, 2025, in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
After catching 12 passes for 225 yards and two touchdowns in a Dec. 18 overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Nacua once again voiced his frustration with the NFL referees’ handling of the game.
“Don’t say I was wrong. I appreciate the strikes for your contribution. Lol,” he wrote on X.
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) runs with the ball during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks Dec. 18, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)
Rams coach Sean McVay dismissed the notion that the off-field discussions surrounding Nacua were a distraction leading into last week’s meeting with the team’s NFC West rival.
“It wasn’t a distraction at all,” McVay said. “Do you think his performance showed he was distracted? I didn’t think so either. He left today.”
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Nacua said that he was very happy to move forward in the series of events associated with chaos.
“One hundred percent,” Nacua said. “It’s Christmas. I’m glad there was something so big happening, something that could have pushed everything until last week. It was nice to enjoy, to celebrate, to be happy and prepare for what’s ahead of us.”
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