Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, who exploded for 129 receptions, 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2025 largely on Stafford’s throws, stressed Stafford’s value and indicated he isn’t rushing the veteran’s decision. In an exclusive Heavy Sports interview, Nacua said he plans to see Stafford at the Super Bowl but isn’t pressing him, noting the team must stay focused on preparation even as questions linger.
Stafford’s status remains pivotal because, with him, Los Angeles could again be among the league’s best. The veteran nearly retired last offseason and dealt with a back issue during training camp; without Stafford, the Rams would face a more difficult path to sustained success and a potential quarterback transition.
The Rams sit at No. 13 and No. 29 in the 2026 draft after last year’s draft-day trade with the Falcons, a rare position to leverage while still in a Super Bowl window. That flexibility gives the Rams room to pursue a quarterback development option behind Stafford, or to bolster the defense or add another big-play weapon on offense.
As draft plans unfold, Nacua’s comments reflect a front-office reality: they’ll know Stafford’s decision by the time the draft rolls around, and the No. 13 pick could be used to select a quarterback behind the starter or to address other premium needs.
Overall, Stafford’s decision will largely determine the Rams’ offseason trajectory. Nacua’s insight underscores the importance of Stafford to Los Angeles’ continued contention, while the team’s two top-30 picks provide a versatile path to either a quarterback successor in development or a key impact addition for 2026.
