Could Los Angeles Rams Star Puka Nacua Be Candidate for NFL Offensive Player of the Year?

Los Angeles Rams star Puka Nacua was one of the best talents in the league this past year, and he could take his impact to another level this season.

Jan 7, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (17) after the / Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Rams had one of the best young talents in the league this past year in Puka Nacua, and he is in a prime position to improve and be even better this season.

Nacua was the runner-up for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year this past season, and he could use that as a chip on his shoulder and prove that he deserves some hardware. With the rookie season that he had, if Nacua can improve, he could have his sights set on Offensive Player of the Year.

Dec 31, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (17) runs / Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

He finished his rookie season with 1486 yards, which placed him only behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, CeeDee Lamb, and the runner-up for last year's OPOY, Tyreek Hill. He was also top ten in targets and receptions, both impressive feats for a receiver's rookie year.

The only stat that wasn't really there for Nacua was touchdowns, as he only finished with six. Granted, this could have been because of the fact that he is sharing the field with a few other offensive stars like Cooper Kupp and Kyren Williams. But if he is able to get his touchdown numbers up this season, he could be in prime position to have one of the best sophomore seasons ever.

Nacua played a key role in the Rams making the playoffs last season and bouncing back from their very disappointing 2022 campaign. And if he can have a stellar second year as well, then he and the Rams could both be in good position to contend for some hardware.