Puka Nacua benefited greatly from having Cooper Kupp by his side during his first two seasons in the NFL. He talked endlessly about what he learned from Kupp and how grateful he is to have been his teammate, but the two are no longer on the same team.
This year, Nacua has a different veteran to learn from: Davante Adams, another savvy route runner and perfectionist when it comes to playing wide receiver.
Nacua and Adams have only been teammates for a few months but their partnership is already off to a great start. Nacua talked during the offseason program about how Adams has helped him, specifically citing his releases and stealing leverage at the line of scrimmage.
“I think the suddenness and the ability to steal leverage at the line of scrimmage has been something that he thrives on and everybody in the NFL knows that’s something that is one of his greatest assets and to be able to figure that out and how that works in our route concepts and the timing of our offense. So I’d say that’s been one of the biggest things,” Nacua said.
Adams has come in and been an open book for the Rams’ other receivers, even helping out the defensive backs from time to time. His willingness to share tips and advice has had a positive impact on the entire offense, Nacua says.
“I think it’s been open for our entire offense,” he said. “Some of the route conversions, the things that he’s put on tape and giving confidence to our coaches to maybe see how it can fit our skill group and stuff like that so it’s been exciting to see. I think some of the vertical threat that we are going to be able to provide with him and the routes that he’s run and put on tape and exploring all those options for every other receiver as well.”
After a few tough years with the Raiders and Jets, Adams is back in a great situation for not only himself, but the team. His talent is one thing, but his knowledge and experience make him an even greater asset to the Rams.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams’ Puka Nacua already learning a lot from Davante Adams