The buzz out of the Rams’ camp is wild, with receiver Puka Nacua apparently not “holding in” for a new contract, even though he’s just months away from free agency. This dude has had three stellar seasons, right? You’d think he’d want that long-term security before stepping on the field, especially with the crazy money flying around for guys like our own Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
The Big Risk Nacua Is Taking
The current Collective Bargaining Agreement makes it super tough for any player to outright hold out for a new deal. Instead, most guys in Nacua’s shoes would “hold in,” showing up for training camp but staying off the practice field to avoid any injury until their new deal is inked. It’s smart, it protects their future. But Nacua? Nah, he’s apparently skipping that play. Coach Sean McVay told reporters Saturday, “Oh, he’ll practice, yes,” and added, “My understanding is everybody’s going to practice and be ready to go.” That’s a bold move, man. Nacua is due $5.767 million this year, which is real money, sure, but nothing compared to what a top-tier receiver can command. He’s putting his body on the line without that big bag.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Record-Setting Deal Changes Everything
Here’s where it gets even crazier for Nacua: look at our guy, Jaxon Smith-Njigba. JSN was drafted the same year as Nacua, and he just locked down a record-setting contract paying him a ridiculous $42.15 million annually. Think about that for a second. Our Seahawks offense has JSN secure for the long haul, while Nacua is out there taking reps with no new deal in sight, just hoping he stays healthy. The contrast is jarring. For us here in the Emerald City, it’s awesome to see our guys get paid and secured, but for Nacua, it highlights exactly what he’s risking by not “holding in.” That $42 million number has to be hanging over his head every single day.
Off-Field Trouble Adds Pressure
And if the contract situation wasn’t enough, Nacua’s got some serious off-field issues muddying the waters. Reports say a civil lawsuit alleging he bit a woman on New Year’s Eve emerged during the offseason. That kind of stuff puts any player in a completely different spot, especially when contract talks are on the table. The source article mentioned he’s grateful for the support from the Rams, but you gotta believe he’s at least a little nervous about what could happen with that lawsuit. It’s a huge distraction and definitely doesn’t help his leverage. He should be leery about it, for real.
This whole situation for Nacua is a high-stakes gamble as training camp kicks into gear. With a civil lawsuit looming and no big second contract, every snap he takes is a risk. Meanwhile, our Seahawks are looking forward to Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s secured future on the field. It makes you appreciate the security our guys have, and it makes you wonder what kind of season Nacua is about to have, playing under this insane pressure.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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