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For just the second time in his NFL career, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is dealing with the reality of a league-imposed fine. The NFL Network reported that the third-year receiver was fined $25,000 after he criticized officials during a viral live stream and in a social media post.
On Friday, the 24-year-old spoke of the costly discipline and admitted it was difficult. “That one, it definitely hurt,” Nacua told reporters in his first public comments since receiving the fine.
He added that the fine served as a lesson.
“I think it was something I expected,” he said. “It was a learning moment and an experience to learn from and never let happen again.”
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Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams reacts in the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at SoFi Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
“There will be moments of frustration later in my career, whether it’s ups and downs on my personal side or on the team side, so I’m able to deal with those emotions and send that energy in the right direction.”
Nacua initially raised eyebrows when, during a live stream appearance with internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on, he stated that “the judges are the worst.”
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He also sparked controversy during the live stream when he appeared to perform a gesture that plays on anti-Semitic tropes. He later apologized.
“I had no idea this act was anti-Semitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jews,” the recipient said in an Instagram post. “I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions as I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hatred towards another group of people.”
Puka Nacua (12) of the Los Angeles Rams reacts after a catch in the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on December 18, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (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 expressed his frustration with how the NFL referees handled the game.
“Can you say I was wrong. Appreciate your stripes for your contribution. Lol,” he wrote on X.
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) runs with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in Seattle, Washington. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)
Rams coach Sean McVay dismissed the idea that the off-court talk surrounding Nacua was a distraction leading up to last week’s clash with the team’s NFC West division rival.
“It wasn’t a distraction at all,” McVay said. “Do you think his play showed he was distracted? I didn’t think so either. He went off today.”
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Nacua said he was more than happy to move on from the tumultuous series of events.
“One hundred percent,” Nacua said. “Christmas. I’m glad something like a big thing happened, something that would push everything to the previous week. It’s been nice to enjoy, celebrate, rejoice and then prepare for what lies ahead.”
