Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Puka Nacua Sends Blunt Message About Brock Purdy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jack Meyer | Last updated Apr 21, 2025 1:06 PM ET

The 2025 NFL season may still be months away, but Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is already making some bold claims regarding a fellow NFC West squad. On April 8, Nacua appeared on the "Games With Names" podcast hosted by Julian Edelman, where he had a clear-cut message regarding San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.

When discussing Purdy's looming contract extension with Edelman, the 23-year-old LA wideout remained adamant on the point that the former's pay raise shouldn't go any higher than $50 million per season. Otherwise, Nacua believes San Francisco would be knocked out of Super Bowl contention for the foreseeable future.

"He seems like a smart guy. They still have a chance to be in their window," Nacua said. "If he goes for [$50 million], the window closes."

Purdy has surpassed seemingly every expectation imaginable since entering the NFL three years ago. Selected by San Francisco with the final pick in the 2022 draft, Purdy took over as the team's starter late in his rookie season. He went on to lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl LVIII appearance in 2023, where they eventually fell to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Despite a turbulent 2024 campaign that saw his squad miss the playoffs, Purdy has established himself as one of the top up-and-coming quarterbacks in the league. Questions still remain, however, as to how high his ceiling may be - and if he's already reached it or not.

The Rams and 49ers will meet twice this coming season in a pair of NFC West showdowns. The dates of those two matchups are still yet to be announced.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: