By any measure, Puka Nacua has been one of the NFL’s most valuable players—not just for his production, but for what the Los Angeles Rams are (barely) paying him.
The 2023 fifth-round pick is still playing on a four-year, $4.08 million rookie deal, which includes just $244,976 in guaranteed money. His average annual salary is roughly $1 million—a fraction of what his impact would demand on the open market. But that number is about to skyrocket.
The Garrett Wilson Effect
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On Monday, the New York Jets agreed to a four-year, $130 million extension with Garrett Wilson—who, like Nacua, has only played two seasons. The deal includes a staggering $90 million guaranteed and an annual average of $32.5 million. That doesn’t just reset the wide receiver market for third-year players; it also fast-tracks Nacua’s payday.
While it was always expected that Nacua would command a massive extension when the time came, Garrett Wilson’s new deal has accelerated the timeline and dramatically raised the stakes—reshaping the wide receiver market in a way that could significantly impact the Rams’ long-term financial outlook.
Wilson’s extension serves as a blueprint—and a floor—for what Nacua can now expect. And by virtually every metric, Nacua’s early-career production rivals (or surpasses) Wilson’s. The Rams’ young star was matching Ja’Marr Chase in receptions and yards-per-game after returning from injury last season, and unlike many WR1s, Nacua produced despite instability at quarterback.
Los Angeles Rams Deal Could Come in 2025—or Cost More in 2026
Under NFL rules, the Rams can begin extension talks after Nacua’s third season. Given his draft status and low salary, Nacua may push for a deal next offseason. The Rams might be wise to act quickly. Waiting risks letting the market continue to inflate—especially with players like Drake London and Terry McLaurin due for deals of their own.
If Nacua stays healthy and posts another 1,200-yard season, he’ll command a contract north of $150 million. Industry projections suggest a four-year deal worth $150–165 million, with $100–120 million guaranteed—similar to what Chase, Justin Jefferson, and CeeDee Lamb secured.
For now, Nacua remains the biggest bargain in football. But the Rams’ financial clock is ticking—and every new wide receiver contract only makes the eventual price tag bigger.
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