Puka Nacua of Rams sets an NFL record by making 25 receptions in his first two games

No issue if Cooper Kupp is absent. Through two games, wideout Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams appears to be the steal of the 2023 NFL Draught after building on a strong start to set an NFL record in his second professional game.

In Week 2, when the Rams were defeated 30-23 by the San Francisco 49ers, Nacua pulled in 15 catches for 147 yards. Nacua now has 25 catches through his first two games.

Earl Cooper previously held the mark for the most catches made in his first two NFL contests. In 1980, Cooper caught 19 passes in his first two games with the 49ers. On Sunday, Nacua surpassed Cooper’s record early in the fourth quarter. The record was later increased by five more catches that he made.

Nacua made history by becoming the first rookie with 10 or more catches and 100 or more receiving yards in each of his opening two games. In Week 1, he hauled in 10 catches for 119 yards. Nacua’s fantasy roster share increased as a result of that performance, going from 7% to 75% going into Week 2.

In his first two NFL games, Nacua has looked like an enormous steal. Nacua’s performance in college was hindered by injuries, which caused the Rams to select him in the fifth round of the 2023 draft. Nacua has stepped up to earn the confidence of quarterback Matthew Stafford after Kupp was injured early.

To begin 2023, the Rams’ offence has looked much better with Nacua and a resurgent Stafford at the helm. Although the Rams lost to the rival 49ers on Sunday, they should be much more competitive in what may turn out to be an interesting NFC West later on.