Is it possible for a star player in the NFL to not know what division his team plays in? That’s what one story from this week would lead us to believe.
On Thursday, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua spoke with the media. He was asked during his press conference about whether the tight division race impacts the team’s approach to games each week.
Nacua tried to shake off the question by saying he didn’t even know what division the Rams played in.
“No, if I’m being honest with you guys, somebody told me we’re in the NFC West, so that’s good to know, I guess,” Nacua said. “Yeah, one day at a time is my mentality. I feel like I say that to you guys a lot, but then it’s whatever game we have coming up on Sunday or whatever the day that week it falls on.”
The comment went viral on Sunday after ESPN reporter Adam Schefter promoted a story about it.
The Rams are fighting for the NFC West, but Puka Nacua told @LindsayThiry he didn't even know what division they were in until recently 😅 pic.twitter.com/NyjCpwNjjr
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) November 24, 2024
Though it was presented as if Nacua was being completely serious, there are reasons to doubt that was the case. First off, Rams head coach Sean McVay figured that Nacua was joking. Secondly, Nacua’s comments may just be a reflection of his attitude. He’s not focused on division races or schedules, but just on doing the best job he can do. It’s that type of tunnel vision that may be serving him well and leading to strong performances from him.
Nacua has 28 catches for 373 yards and a touchdown in 5 games this season. As a rookie last season, Nacua had 105 catches for 1,486 yards and 6 touchdowns. Whatever he’s doing is working.
