Puka Nacua explains why he's deferred to Davante Adams as Rams' leader in WR drills
Just days into the start of Los Angeles Rams training camp, Puka Nacua is already embracing the presence and leadership of his All-Pro teammate Devante Adams. Right from the start, Adams isn't just participating; he's influencing everything that comes to mind, from drills to pacing to leadership, similar to the way Cooper Kupp did.
While the Rams will look for their young star wideout to embrace more of a leadership role in Year 3 himself, Nacua didn't hesitate one bit when he asked Adams to take the lead in position drills, signaling the respect that the future Hall of Famer has earned over his 11-year career.
'I've asked Davante to lead our position group, to lead our position group drills,' Nacua said. 'There is a respect for him to come in saying, 'I don't want to push you out of the way or take your spot and be like, oh, I should be up there number one.' But it's something that I have a huge amount of respect for his game and I'm blessed to be around great people like Coop and Davante.'
While in the presence of a route-running wizard, Nacua – who has also showcased himself as one of the league's best route runners over his first two seasons – has continued to play as a student of the game and watching Adams up close during live reps is having a great impact.
"When I was in the front, I'm trying to sprint as fast as I can so I can turn around and watch him,' Nacua added. "So, I was like, 'Hey, I think it'll make my job a little bit easier if you just go first.' Today I was right there in the back and I'm just standing like this because I'm going to watch the tape again, but I'm like, there's nothing better than seeing him with my own two eyes."
The Rams signed Adams in March to help fill the void left by Kupp, who joined the division-rival Seahawks and will face his former team twice this season. Adams' arrival not only adds a proven playmaker to the offense but also continues the mentorship pipeline for the rising star Nacua. His eagerness to learn and willingness to defer to the 32-year-old veteran speak volumes about the leadership presence Adams brings to the Rams' wide receiver room.
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