NFL analyst spotlights one rookie that could break Puka Nacua’s rookie receiving record (and it isn’t Malik Nabers)
Last season, Los Angeles Rams rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua had one of the best rookie seasons in NFL history. As an unknown fifth-round pick, Nacua led the Rams in receiving yards and emerged as one of the best wide receivers in the NFL.
This year's wide receiver class is highlighted by Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers and Rome Odunze. All three were selected in the top 10 of this year's draft and are expected to have big seasons and early impacts.
Who will be the best rookie wide receiver? According to former NFL defensive lineman Akbar Gbajabiamila, Harrison Jr. of the Arizona Cardinals has a big chance of breaking Nacua's NFL rookie record for most receiving yards (1,486 yards).
"I think of Puka Nacua and how he came as a fifth-rounder, broke rookie records, set rookies, set a rookie record, and 1,486 yards in his rookie campaign. I mean, he became that guy for the Rams," Gbajabiamila said on Good Morning Football.
"I think a guy who could do that this year in this rookie class is none other than Marvin Harrison Jr. I think he's coming into a situation where he is going to be the guy. He's going to be the focal point. He is the star wide receiver. We already know what Kyler Murray can do. Now you give him a legitimate weapon like a Marvin Harrison Jr. Oh, man. I mean, I think he may break Puka Nacua record, because that's going to be the emphasis now."
How good was Puka Nacua's rookie season?
Puka Nacua made a name for himself in the Los Angeles Rams' season-opener against the Seattle Seahawks last season, where he had 10 receptions for 119 yards.
He continues being a productive wide receiver, setting four rookie records. Nacua set the rookie record for most receptions (105) and receiving yards (1,486) in a single season. He also set a record for most receptions in a single game for a rookie (15) as well as the most receiving yards in a playoff game by a rookie (181).
Nacua is looking to build off of his big rookie season, but he's currently dealing with a knee injury he suffered in practice last week. Head coach Sean McVay said the injury isn't serious and that the team expects to have Nacua for their season opener.