Los Angeles Rams Head Coach Sean McVay Compares Puka Nacua to Esteemed Former Ram

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay spoke on Monday about the thrill of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua on the field together but brought up another receiver, too.

It’s possible your favorite fantasy football analyst was concerned about Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua coming back down to Earth with the return of superstar receiver Cooper Kupp.

As Sunday’s action showed, that wasn’t the case. Nacua and Kupp can coexist in this offense, as evidenced by their combined 23 targets, 15 catches, 189 yards, and one touchdown. If the Los Angeles offense was fun with quarterback Matthew Stafford and one cerebral receiver, two projects to be a blast.

Furthermore, they are operating in different, but sometimes overlapping, roles. Kupp has his rightful place over the middle of the field. Nacua finds himself outside frequently, resembling a familiar receiver in head coach Sean McVay’s system: Houston Texans receiver Robert Woods.

McVay spoke about the comparison on Monday.

“Very similar,” McVay said. “I think you're talking about two really good football players and guys that were focal points of the offense that would not exclusively compete with the ball but without the ball. And so that's consistent.”

Nacua running after the catch against the Eagles / USA TODAY Sports

Like Kupp, Nacua’s ability to block is appreciated, and part of what gets him on the field. McVay has been quick to remove veterans for less-established youngsters. Running back Kyren Williams usurped Cam Akers, and Nacua has found himself taking snaps that once belonged to Van Jefferson.

Both Akers and Jefferson were traded after losing their jobs. Nacua’s competitiveness, versatility, and chemistry with Stafford earned him a job.

Moreover, it’s clear McVay is excited about the talent he has at his disposal. It simply makes life easier, even when game planning for quality defenses.

“I think there's always an element of, all right, who are you going against?” McVay added. “What are the structures that you anticipate attacking? How does the game unfold?”

It may be hard to determine which receiver will dominate the target share on any given day, but the duo combining for 60% of Stafford’s target share shouldn’t be written off. It’s here to stay.

Stafford and McVay have two star receivers on the field at the same time, and they are incredible fits for what Los Angeles wants to do. Expect the points to follow against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 6.