From CBS Sports · · 3m
Puka Nacua's $29M NFL Paycheck
Puka Nacua's $29 million 2027 salary cap target could redefine wide receiver pay scales after his controversial 2025 season.
In brief
Puka Nacua's $29 million 2027 salary cap target could redefine wide receiver pay scales after his controversial 2025 season. Nacua's $29 million 2027 salary cap target reflects his potential to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Contract Year Signings
Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Baker Mayfield to a $165 million three-year extension. Seattle Seahawks extended Leonard Williams to $90 million.
Puka Nacua's Controversy
Nacua apologized for antisemitic gestures and a lawsuit alleging biting a woman while intoxicated. He spent time in a holistic care facility.
“Nacua performed a suggested touchdown dance with a gesture considered antisemitic, for which he apologized.”
Nacua's Stats
Nacua had 313 receptions for 4,191 yards and 19 touchdowns in his first three NFL seasons.
Rams' Strategy
Rams let Nacua and other 2023 draft picks play rookie contracts after acquiring Trent McDuffie and Myles Garrett.
Nacua's 2026 Target
Nacua's 2027 franchise tag could be $29 million depending on the 2027 salary cap.
Kyler Murray's Move
Murray signed a $1.3 million league-minimum contract with Vikings after being released by Cardinals.
George Pickens' Situation
Pickens was designated a franchise player for $27.298 million after a slow start with the Cowboys.
Quenton Nelson's Status
Nelson earned All-Pro honors for the sixth time in 2025 and could become the highest-paid interior offensive lineman.
Brian Branch' Injury
Branch is on PUP due to a torn right Achilles and may return before teammate Kerby Joseph.
Joey Porter Jr.'s Stalemate
Porter rejected a $27 million offer and faces contract structure issues with Steelers.
Tuli Tuipulotu's Challenge
Tuipulotu earned his first Pro Bowl after 13 sacks but faces a contract stalemate with Steelers.
Sam LaPorta's Delay
LaPorta missed eight games last season with a herniated disc and will likely get a deal in 2027.
Byron Young's Opportunity
Young could eclipse Jaelen Phillips' $120 million contract as the Rams' top edge rusher.
Riq Woolen's Red Flags
Woolen has nine penalties including three taunts and is playing on a $12 million one-year deal.
Chase Brown's Potential
Brown has over 2,000 rushing yards and 120 receptions in two seasons and could benefit from a rising running back market.
Parker Washington's Rise
Washington had 41 catches for 640 yards after Travis Hunter's injury and is a potential $29 million salary floor.
Moro Ojomo's Path
Ojomo could follow Milton Williams' path to a $104 million deal with Patriots after Eagles' defensive line struggles.
Riley Moss' Penalties
Moss has 203 penalties yards and is targeted 114 times, making him a potential $20 million salary floor.
Steve Avila's Status
Avila and Kevin Dotson both have expiring contracts with the Rams.
The bottom line
Nacua's $29 million 2027 salary cap target reflects his potential to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.




