Video: Rams' Puka Nacua Fined for Punch That Led to Ejection vs. Seahawks
November 9, 2024
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has been fined $5,424 for throwing a punch during Sunday's win over the Seattle Seahawks, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
Nacua was ejected from the 26-20 win in the second quarter after throwing a punch at Seahawks linebacker Tyrel Dodson.
The incident occurred on an interception return after Seattle's Riq Woolen picked off a pass from Matthew Stafford meant for Nacua.
Nacua left the game having made one catch for 11 yards on four targets. He told reporters after Friday's practice he didn't think the incident would make him play less aggressively going forward.
The wide receiver named edge rushers Byron Young and Jared Verse along with linebacker Omar Speights as inspirations to play aggressively.
"I think being able to be, especially around guys on our team... everybody's always ready to pack a punch," Nacua told reporters after Friday's practice (h/t NBC Sports' Mike Florio.) "It's nice to get back in there and be like everybody's willing to hit. Just being a little bit extra aware of some of the thoughts after the play where people are like, 'I'm going to take my opportunity.'"
According to Nacua, the incident marked the first time he had been ejected from a game at any level.
"It was just a natural reaction," Nacua said, per Florio. "I think that the phrase that kind of sticks out to me is reacting over responding. That was one thing that coach McVay always talks about is there are going to be ups and downs, but it's how you respond to those moments that makes it and it will define you.
"Being able to learn from something like that, but then also being like I come from a tough background and I'm never going to feel like somebody's trying to enforce their will. Outside the whistle, I'm going to make sure I stand on my ground."
A fine as the punishment rather than a suspension for Nacua will come as a relief to Matthew Stafford and the Rams. The second-year wideout, who missed five games earlier this season with a knee injury, led the Rams with 106 receiving yards in his return from injury in a Week 8 win over the Minnesota Vikings.
Nacua will now rejoin the Rams as the team wraps up Week 10 with a Monday night home game against the Miami Dolphins, during which Los Angeles will look to challenge the Arizona Cardinals for the top of the NFC West by improving to 5-4.
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