Rams Star Puka Nacua Named Finalist for Offensive Rookie of the Year
Even though the Los Angeles Rams' season didn't end how they would have wanted, they had a player who had one of the greatest rookie years in NFL history.
Wide receiver Puka Nacua finished the season with the most receptions as well as the most receiving yards ever by a rookie. It was only a matter of time before the young star was named as a finalist for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, and it happened officially on Tuesday.
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The other finalists for the award are Texans QB C.J. Stroud, Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, and Dolphins running back De'Von Achane.
All of these players had spectacular seasons, but perhaps the biggest obstacle in Nacua's quest to win the award is Stroud.
The Houston Texans breakout quarterback led a team that finished with one of the worst records in the NFL last season to the divisional round of the playoffs. The young core of the Texans looked incredible, especially towards the end of the season, and Stroud was at the forefront of that.
With that being said, if anyone stacks up to the incredible season that Stroud had, it's Nacua, who wasn't selected until the fifth round of last year's NFL Draft.
Coach Sean McVay knew that he wanted Nacua in the draft, and he couldn't be happier for the young wide-out.
"He’s outstanding," McVay said. "You see around the league, you know, (C.J.) Stroud has had a great year, but this guy is – he would get my vote. And he’s really special. But the best part about him is he doesn’t worry about those things. He worries about just being a great teammate, continuing to improve his game and sure love this team. And he’s one of those guys that you really love."
