The Los Angeles Rams have not worked out an extension with Puka Nacua, and the record deal for Seattle Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba could complicate things.
The Los Angeles Rams may have a tricky situation on their hands following the record deal for Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The league-leading receiving yards player received a monster four-year, $168.6 million deal, which comes out to $42.15 million per year.
This new deal will complicate things for the Rams and Puka Nacua, who is arguably at the same level as Smith-Njigba. Nacua has also been mentioned as the best receiver in the league, and his production has only continued to rise.
In just three short seasons, Nacua has amassed 4,431 yards and 21 touchdowns from scrimmage. This includes 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2025.
Nacua also led the league with 129 receptions and 80 first-down receptions. His career 95.3 yards per game average is also a record.
That is not to mention Nacua set the rookie receptions record in 2023 with 105. That figure was bested by Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, but the Rams receiver set the bar.
Nacua is also a two-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, and would have likely received another in 2024, but an ankle injury kept him out of multiple games.
The Rams receiver continually showcases that he is one of the best deepfield threats, and his contested ball catching is arguably the best in the league. With continuing to be one of the best at the position, Los Angeles will have to open up the checkbook in a big way.
General manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay have both discussed Nacua receiving an extension, and it appears they may have to get busy on making that happen now.
The Rams could have saved a bit of money had the extension been completed before Smith-Njigba received his, and it would not be the least bit shocking if Nacua's deal also resets the wide receiver market.
Cincinnati Bengals receiver Ja'Marr Chase was the previous record holder, with an annual amount of $40.25 million, which has now been leapfrogged by Smith-Njigba's $42.15 million.
When the time comes to extend Nacua, he may want a contract that is similar to or beats out his divisional rival.
Nacua continues to showcase elite skills, and it's only a matter of time until he will likely lead the league in receptions, touchdowns, and receiving yards. If he can complete the triple crown in 2026, the Rams will have no choice but to give him a massive extension.