Puka Nacua Sounds Off On NFL Referees

Coming off a dominant start to his career, Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams has quickly become one of the best up-and-coming stars in the NFL. However, it is his comments made off the field that have been overshadowing his in-game prowess. Recently, in an effort to reach his many streaming followers, Nacua made some harsh comments about officials in the NFL.

The comments were especially timely, as the Rams were getting ready for a quick week contest against the Seattle Seahawks for first place in the NFC West. Given the history of the league fining players for complaining about officiating, Nacua’s comments certainly raised several eyebrows.

What Nacua Said On Livestream

During an online livestreaming event where popular online personalities Adin Ross and ‘N3on’ were present, questions and discussions revolved around officiating. However, when the question of officiating arose, Nacua expressed no reservations. He called referees “the worst” and even suspected that referees derive enjoyment from the spotlight that accompanies game-time decisions shown on national television.

“The refs could even call penalties when they don’t exist,” he said with a laugh, suggesting an official could text friends after the game about “being featured on Sunday Night Football.”

Asked if he really believed referees would call penalties for the sake of publicity, Nacua shrugged and said, “They’re normal human beings too,” as if to say anyone could be swayed by ego and publicity.

“This is getting out of hand,” Nacua said. “This is getting ridiculous. There’s been so much disrespect shown towards officials, and now officials are going out and disrespecting coaches. It’s just getting silly at this point.”

Moments That Sparked Debate Over Officiating

The angst Nacua expressed reflects league-wide discussions about consistency in officiating, specifically with regard to pass interference and goal-line calls. Among the contentious plays mentioned by fans was a touchdown by Colby Parkinson, in which he was alleged to have lost or been down before entering the goal line.

However, after reviewing the play, the officials decided to uphold the touchdown, concluding that Parkinson had established possession of the ball upon entering the end zone. This only served to further anger those who questioned the touchdown catch and what it showed about the variability of the officials’ decisions when they continue to affect the flow of the game.

Another controversial play that ensued towards the end of the game was a fourth-and-goal, in which pass interference was called against Emmanuel Forbes. The play resulted in a touchdown, and there was confusion about whether a foul had actually been committed.

Even so, it was only after the game that Rams Head Coach Sean McVay expressed some reluctance concerning the choice, saying that it seemed like Forbes was okay, but he was not making those decisions. This play was indicative of why calling in the NFL is so controversial.

McVay Says No To Streaming

Aside from his officiating observation, Nacua’s livestream also shows his unusual dynamic with livestream culture. Nacua tried to incorporate Ross and ‘N3on’ inside the Rams’ facility for a livestream, but McVay immediately dismissed this.

Nacua went on to explain the failed attempt that resulted from miscommunications—particularly tough to do during a short week. “Yeah, I think Coach McVay wasn’t too pleased with the plan,” Nacua said.

This is not the first time Nacua’s livestream has raised concerns, as he has also been caught livestreaming from the locker room after a team victory despite being admonished against doing so by his teammates. Although no action has been taken, this would seem indicative of Nacua still finding his way as a young star.

Final Thoughts

Nacua’s statements have certainly resonated with people because what he said is a sentiment that most players and fans feel, although not many of them have been vocal about this. While his statements might connect with the audience, there can also be repercussions because the league is very strict about expressing dissatisfaction with the officials.

While the Rams are about to have the defining showdown with the Seahawks, the spotlight is bound to go back to the sport itself. If the NFL decides to act on Nacua’s statements or if it lets them go unnoticed, it is quite evident that with fame comes scrutiny.