The Los Angeles Rams don’t have a ton to play for in Week 18 after clinching a playoff berth on Sunday afternoon, but there’s a lot on the line for Puka Nacua in the season finale. The Rams rookie is approaching two major rookie records, giving him a chance to cap off one of the best seasons ever by a first-year receiver.
If the season ended today, Nacua’s 2023 campaign would already be considered one of the all-time best, especially considering he was drafted in the fifth round. But with one week remaining, he’s within striking distance of the records for the most receptions and receiving yards by a rookie.
With 101 catches, Nacua is tied for second with Anquan Boldin, who had 101 catches back in the 2003 season. Jaylen Waddle set the rookie receptions record with 104 catches in 2021, so Nacua only needs four more catches to break that mark.
Nacua also has 1,445 yards receiving, which is the third-most ever by a rookie. Ja’Marr Chase is second with 1,455 yards, and Bill Groman holds the record with 1,473 yards. He set that way back in 1960, so the record has stood for 63 years.
Nacua only needs 29 yards against the 49ers next week to pass Groman for the most receiving yards ever by a rookie. Groman set the record in only 14 games, but that doesn’t take away from what Nacua has done this season.
If Nacua breaks the rookie receiving record, the Rams will have two of the best seasons ever by first-year players. Eric Dickerson holds the record for the most rushing yards by a rookie (1,808) and Nacua is now likely to have the most receiving yards by a rookie.
The Rams could opt to rest their starters in Week 18 with very little to play for, but they should absolutely let Nacua go chase history in the finale.
