Rams' Nacua sets rookie record for receiving yards
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua entered the record books yet again by setting the rookie single-season record for receiving yards during Sunday's 21-20 win over the San Francisco 49ers.
Nacua started the matchup 29 yards shy of the historic mark Bill Groman set in 1960 when he collected 1,473 yards. He finished the matchup with 41 yards and one touchdown on four receptions.
The Rams sensation made history in the third quarter versus San Francisco after catching a short pass from Carson Wentz.
HISTORY Puka Nacua becomes the ALL-TIME NFL rookie record holder for receiving yards in a season!
- NFL (@NFL) January 7, 2024
: #LARvsSF on FOX
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/X0vcyHUoyR pic.twitter.com/fgWhCQyHXB
Nacua then set another first-year record seconds later by catching his 105th pass of the season. Miami Dolphins wideout Jaylen Waddle previously owned the receptions record after registering 104 catches in 2021.
It's been a remarkable season for Nacua, who was only the 20th wide receiver drafted last April as a fifth-round pick. The BYU product entered Week 18 with 101 catches for 1,445 yards and five touchdowns.
The 22-year-old was crucial in helping the Rams' offense stay sharp to start the season while without former Offensive Player of the Year Cooper Kupp, who was sidelined due to injury.
Nacua broke the NFL single-game rookie record with 15 catches during the Rams' first clash against the 49ers in Week 2. He also topped 150 scrimmage yards in four contests.
Los Angeles entered Sunday's game having already clinched a playoff berth and rested multiple starters, including Kupp and quarterback Matthew Stafford. The Rams secured the NFC's No. 6 seed with the victory and will face the Detroit Lions in the wild-card round.
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