Just 24 Hours After Being Released, OT With Over 1,000 Career Snaps Shockingly Re-Signed by the Steelers — And the Story Behind the “Savvy” Decision Is Turning Heads Across the NFL Ahead of the 2026 Draft

Thousand Oaks, California – The Los Angeles Rams are poised to secure the future of one of their most important offensive assets, wide receiver Puka Nacua. With the 25-year-old entering the final year of his four-year rookie contract, the Rams are expected to prioritize a contract extension in the spring of 2026. Sources around the league, including those from Turf Show Times, ESPN, and Spotrac, have pointed to Nacua as the team’s top offseason priority. Nacua, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2023 draft, has quickly emerged as one of the NFL's top wide receivers. His ability to dominate targets and produce explosive plays has transformed the Rams’ offense into one of the most dynamic units in the league. Many experts view him as an All-Pro caliber player, with his rise to the elite ranks happening faster than anticipated. With three accrued seasons, Nacua will be eligible for an extension after the 2026 season, and discussions are expected to intensify in the coming months. Industry projections suggest that the wide receiver could sign a four-year deal worth around $156 million, with an average annual value (AAV) of $39 million—potentially surpassing Ja'Marr Chase to become the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history. This move is particularly critical for the Rams, who are looking to lock up Nacua before the competitive wide receiver market causes his price to skyrocket. As other young talents approach their own extensions, Los Angeles is looking to secure its standout player before others reset the market. “Nacua’s leadership and elite production have made him indispensable to the Rams’ long-term offensive strategy. His presence has solidified the passing game, and the front office views him as a cornerstone for a future championship run.” Securing Nacua early would not only prevent the market from pushing his value higher but also ensure continuity for the offense, which has been crucial in Los Angeles’ rise as a top contender in the NFC. While the extension would involve a significant financial commitment, sources within the organization argue that investing in a game-changing talent like Nacua is a necessary move to keep the offense elite. The Rams are sending a strong message: the core of their offense is secure, and they are ready to compete at the highest level for years to come. By locking up Nacua long-term, the Rams will continue building around their young offensive stars, setting the stage for sustained success in the NFC. With his deal potentially looming, the focus shifts to whether the Rams can get it done before the market drives his value higher.