Puka Nacua wants to focus on playing football and not on-going negotiations with extending his contract with the Rams

As the Los Angeles Rams wrapped up the first block of training camp at Loyola Marymount University, Puka Nacua made one thing clear: despite ongoing contract extension discussions, the thought of holding out never crossed his mind.

When asked if he ever considered staying away from camp while awaiting a new deal, the Rams' star receiver didn't hesitate.

“No. Not really. The game of football is a safe place for me, and I enjoy that.”

For Nacua, being back on the field with his teammates has always been the priority.

“Seeing that jersey number 12 hung up in my locker is something that I don't take for granted,” Nacua said. “Being around this group of guys... it has never crossed my mind that I don't want to be out here with these guys.”

The comments offered welcome clarity after an offseason that included personal challenges and speculation surrounding his future with the organization. While contract discussions continue in the background, Nacua made it clear his focus remains exactly where it's always been—on football.

Through the first block of camp, the 24-year-old said he feels healthy and energized after making changes to his offseason routine, including improving his diet. Although he joked that he still "dabbles" in McDonald's from time to time, he said he's eager to see how his body responds once the pads come on.

His biggest personal goal this season isn't about statistics.

“The physicality that I play with, I don't think is ever going to change,” Nacua said. “So to continue to take care of my body in the ways that I need to.”

Nacua also addressed the personal growth that has come from an eventful offseason. He said becoming a father, working with his therapist and leaning on his family have helped him continue to mature both on and off the field.

“There have been things that obviously have happened this offseason that haven't been the truest reflection of the person I feel like I am and how my mother raised me,” Nacua said. “I owe a great thank you to my support system, but especially my family through this time.”

As for his contract, Nacua said there have not been many conversations during training camp, with both sides focused on the season ahead.

“Coach has been there to support me,” Nacua said. “I have an understanding that I'll be out here to continue to play football... Hopefully, if I continue to do my part, they'll fall into place.”

Nacua also spoke about how much the game has slowed down since his rookie season, crediting offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, quarterback Matthew Stafford and veteran wide receiver Davante Adams for helping elevate his understanding of the game. He said there's "always room to improve," especially when learning from a player like Adams.

For all the questions about contracts and expectations, Nacua's message was simple.

Football remains his safe place. And as the Rams move into the next phase of training camp, that's exactly where he wants his attention to stay.