Discover the journey of breakout Rams’ WR Puka Nacua, from smashing high school records to his smashing NFL records.
Puka Nacua is officially in the NFL record books -- and he's a rookie.
The Los Angeles Rams first-year standout has been a key part of the team's sudden emergence as a true threat in the looming playoffs.
Coming out of BYU as a fifth-round pick by Los Angeles, Nacua made league history in Week 18 as he secured the NFL rookie receiving record at the San Francisco 49ers, which had stood still since 1960.
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The additional game teams now play definitely helped Nacua's case, but he's also missed one contest this season that could've put him further over the line sooner.
Here's what to know about the NFL rookie receiving record:
What is the NFL rookie receiving record?
NFL
The NFL rookie receiving record belongs to Puka Nacua, who set the mark in 2023 with the Rams. Nacua caught 105 passes for 1,486 yards and six touchdowns.
It previously belonged to Bill Groman, who set the mark in 1960 with the Houston Oilers. The undrafted wideout did so in 14 games, logging 1,473 yards on 72 catches and 12 touchdowns.
Cincinnati Bengals star Ja'Marr Chase came close to breaking the mark in 2021 when he caught 81 passes for 1,455 yards and 13 touchdowns.
What rookie has the most receptions in NFL history?
Nacua also has the most rookie receptions in NFL history with 105. He entered Week 18 with 101, four off the record, and caught four passes versus the 49ers to make history.
Jaylen Waddle previously held the top spot. The Miami Dolphins wideout caught 104 passes in 2021.
What rookie has the most receiving yards in 2023?
Nacua had the most receiving yards as a rookie in 2023 with 1,486. He also recorded 105 catches and six touchdowns.
Who has the most 100 yard receiving games in a rookie season?
Groman has the most 100-plus-yard receiving games as a rookie in NFL history, recording nine in his 1960 campaign. In total in those nine games, he logged 56 catches for 1,222 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Nacua had seven, which is level with Minnesota Vikings' Justin Jefferson and Odell Beckham Jr. (New York Giants).
