Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is facing backlash after sharing a controversial and medically disputed opinion about concussions during a recent livestream.
While appearing on a livestream hosted by internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on, Nacua offered a blunt take that immediately raised eyebrows.
"I also believe that concussions are all in your head. You just can't think about it," Nacua said. When Ross followed up to clarify, asking if that meant concussions "aren't real, it's all in your head," the 24-year-old receiver replied simply, "Yeah."
Nacua also contrasted head injuries with other football ailments moments later, suggesting ligament damage was more tangible.
"Those ones are pretty real," he said of ACL tears. "If you can't get up and walk, that's pretty real."
The remarks circulated on social media, drawing criticism given the NFL's long and highly publicized battle with concussion-related injuries and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
The league has spent years revising safety protocols, improving helmet technology, and changing rules to limit head trauma. In January 2025, the NFL reported a notable drop in concussions, citing better equipment, stricter enforcement of safety rules, and kickoff changes introduced in 2024.
Nacua's comments came during a livestream that had already attracted scrutiny. In other moments, the second-year receiver criticized NFL referees and agreed to perform a touchdown celebration containing an antisemitic trope if he scored, a remark that further fueled backlash.
The situation reportedly spilled into team matters, as well. According to Nacua, he attempted to stream from the Rams' facility earlier this week before head coach Sean McVay shut it down.
The timing is notable, as Nacua was evaluated for a concussion earlier this season following a helmet-to-helmet hit in a Week 1 win. Despite the controversy, the former Brigham Young University standout remains one of quarterback Matthew Stafford's most reliable targets and has topped 1,000 receiving yards in two of his first three seasons.
