Puka Nacua has plenty on his mind beyond his next contract. Appearing on the “Impaulsive” podcast, the Los Angeles Rams’ star wide receiver weighed in on the receiver market’s rapid rise — and revealed he’s thinking bigger than just a playing deal down the road.
Asked about the league’s largest current contracts, Nacua pointed to Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s recent extension as evidence of how far receiver pay has climbed.
“Shoot, the receivers — I mean, we’re getting close to quarterback money right now,” Nacua said.
It’s a notable admission from one of the league’s top young receivers, who is set to become extension-eligible in the coming years after a historic start to his career, including the best rookie receiving season in NFL history. He also recently signed with the same agency as Smith-Njigba amid contract talks.
As receiver salaries continue to balloon across the league, Nacua’s comments suggest he’s well aware of where the market — and his own value — is heading. But Nacua’s ambitions don’t stop at a bigger paycheck. When asked how much money he’d want on his next deal, he pivoted to a different kind of investment altogether.
“Honestly, I want to own half a team,” Nacua said. “Can I play in the league and still have ownership in the team?”
He went on to reference Rams owner Stan Kroenke’s real estate background as inspiration for how he might build wealth outside of football.
“I know Mr. Kroenke, he’s a big real estate guy,” Nacua said. “So whatever the next real estate deal is, let me get a part of that.”
It’s an unconventional goal for a 23-year-old still early in his career, but one that reflects a broader shift among NFL players looking to build long-term wealth and equity rather than relying solely on playing contracts. Caleb Williams reportedly inquired about this exact idea when he was an NFL draft prospect in 2023, too.
While this idea is impossible while he’s still a player, Nacua is clearly thinking about his long-term financial situation, including business ventures other than his likely lucractive extension. Players can have other stakes in other leagues, so perhaps Nacua can look to invest elsewhere once he earns his big paycheck.
For now, he’ll need to focus on getting his new deal with the Rams, whether that comes this year or next year.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Puka Nacua has 1 request in contract negotiations
Reporting by Oliver G., Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Oliver G., Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
