From NBC Sports · · 1m
Puka Nacua's contract looms over injury absence
Rams receiver Puka Nacua's injury absence may be linked to his contract insecurity.
In brief
Rams receiver Puka Nacua's injury absence may be linked to his contract insecurity. Puka Nacua's potential second game absence due to groin injury is tied to his lack of contract security in the final year of his rookie deal. Originally reported by NBC Sports.
Puka Nacua's injury absence
Rams receiver Puka Nacua potentially misses second straight game due to groin injury.
“As Rams receiver Puka Nacua potentially misses a second straight game due to a groin injury, questions linger regarding when he will return.”
Contract insecurity
Nacua makes $5.767 million in final year of rookie deal with no second contract.
“Nacua is making $5.767 million in the final year of his rookie deal.”
Comparison with Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba signed second deal at $42.15 million per year.
“Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who arrived in the NFL the same year as Nacua, has gotten his second deal, at $42.15 million per year.”
Contract delay impact
Nacua's off-field issues delayed his contract but he lacks financial security beyond this year.
“Yes, Nacua’s contract has been delayed by his off-field issues. But with no financial security beyond this year, Nacua surely doesn’t want to risk aggravating the injury and missing even more time.”
Functional play status
Nacua 'functionally' can play but lacks explosiveness due to injury.
“Nacua 'could return as soon as next week,' but that the groin issue has 'impacted his explosiveness.'”
Contract security impact
Nacua likely would play if he had second deal and contract security.
“Here’s the bottom line, Nacua quite possibly would be playing if he had his second deal and the security that goes along with it.”
At a glance
Puka Nacua's potential second game absence due to groin injury is tied to his lack of contract security in the final year of his rookie deal.
