Davante Adams-Puka Nacua combo is already reaping benefits for the Rams

Adams Leads Rams Receivers With Camaraderie, Skills

Puka Nacua shows respect to new teammate, Davante Adams, setting stage for dynamic duo.

Rams training camp saw a unique display of humility from wide receiver Puka Nacua. Eager to welcome star receiver Davante Adams, who signed with the team in March, Nacua initially requested that Adams lead receiver drills.

“He was saying it almost like he'd been wanting to say it for a long time,” said Adams, “but he didn't really know how to say that.”

Nacua explained his reasoning: "There is a respect for him to come in saying, ‘I don’t want to push you out of the way or take your spot and be like, Oh, I should be up there No. 1,’” Nacua said. “But it's something that I have a huge amount of respect for his game.”

The request also came with a playful twist. "When I was in the front, I’m trying to sprint as fast as I can so I can turn around and watch him,” Nacua said, laughing. “So, I was like, ‘Hey, I think it'll make my job a little bit easier if you just go first.' ... There's nothing better than seeing him with my own two eyes.”

Adams, 32, has already made an impact on his new team, impressing teammates and coaches with his skills honed during 11 NFL seasons. He’s amassed 1,000 yards receiving in a season seven times, including the last six in a row. The Rams signed Adams to replace Cooper Kupp, who was released shortly after they agreed to terms with Adams. The two-year deal includes $25 million in guarantees.

Adams, who has played for the Green Bay Packers, Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets, said during offseason workouts that he felt rejuvenated with the Rams and their “college-type camaraderie.” He’s also enjoying working with coach Sean McVay.

“Well, the ‘masterminds’ because it’s a lot of people involved,” Adams said, “but it's just been fun.
“The best part for me is just getting to know the guys and hanging out with them every day.”

Adams’ presence has already made a difference. During a team meeting, McVay complimented Nacua on a play and then asked what he was thinking while running his route. Nacua referenced Adams and a tip he had offered.

“When you have guys that are doing that for each other, that's special stuff,” McVay said.

With quarterback Matthew Stafford sidelined due to a back issue, Adams has worked primarily with veteran backup Jimmy Garoppolo. Garoppolo shared his impressions: “He brought over the same swagger he had in Las Vegas, man. He’s a confident dude.”

Adams' Impact on Rams Receivers:

Receivers coach Eric Yarber, who has coached some of the league’s best receivers during his tenure with McVay, recognizes Adams' unique skill set: "He’s a bigger receiver that has the feet of a little man. I mean, he’s cat-quick, he’s got great change of direction, great catch radius and a great feel for the game.”

Second-year receiver Jordan Whittington echoes this sentiment: “Separation is a big thing that I wanted to work on, and now I’ve got one of the ultimate separators ever. So having him in the film room sharing that type of information and then just watching him go out there and dominate, it’s truly a blessing.”

Adams acknowledges that while he offers advice when appropriate, his focus is on leading by example: “I'm not a walking wise man where I'm just trying to drop little trinkets on him all day, but it's more whenever it comes up,” Adams said.

Golden Opportunity for the Rams:

The Rams are optimistic about their chances with Adams and Nacua at the helm of their receiving corps. Adams himself believes that this team has the potential for greatness: “This is looking pretty golden over here.”