Nacua confirms Rams stay as plan amid contract backlog
Los Angeles Rams star Puka Nacua has reaffirmed his intention to remain with the club, stating it is his plan to secure an extension before his rookie contract expires after the 2026 season.
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has confirmed his intention to remain with the team, stating that staying in Los Angeles is his plan. The comments were made during an appearance at Fanatics Fest, where Nacua addressed questions regarding his long-term future with the franchise. NFL reporter Arye Pulli reported the exchange on July 18, 2026, noting that the receiver aims to secure a long-term deal before entering free agency next March.
Nacua is currently in the final year of his rookie contract, which is set to expire after the 2026 season. If a new agreement is not reached before the free agency window opens in March 2027, he is scheduled to hit the open market. Despite the absence of a signed extension, Nacua has emphasised his commitment to the team’s objectives for the current season while pursuing stability for the future.
The Rams have previously signed contract extensions for several teammates, including Kyren Williams, who agreed to a deal during the preseason of 2025. Other players such as Nate Landman, Quentin Lake, and Kamren Curl have also secured new contracts, with Curl’s extension signed prior to his potential free agency this offseason. However, Nacua and the remainder of the Rams’ 2023 draft class remain unsigned, contributing to a known backlog of contract negotiations within the organisation.
As one of the premier wide receivers in the NFL, Nacua has been a primary factor in the team’s success following their Super Bowl LVI victory. His desire to extend his tenure stems from a wish for long-term stability, even as other receivers across the league have recently signed extensions that highlight his market value. The Rams have identified him as a key component of their offensive strategy, yet negotiations have not yet concluded.
It remains unclear if the Rams will prioritise Nacua’s extension over other roster needs before the upcoming free agency period. While Nacua has explicitly stated that remaining with the team is his plan, no deal has been finalised. The situation underscores the ongoing administrative challenges facing the club as it manages its roster commitments amidst a crowded draft class backlog.
