Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua before a regular-season game against the Carolina Panthers. David Jensen / Getty Images
Dec. 18, 2025Updated 2:32 pm EST
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua apologized on Thursday after appearing on a livestream in which he criticized NFL officials and practiced an antisemitic touchdown dance.
“When I appeared the other day on a social media livestream, it was suggested to me to perform a specific movement as part of my next touchdown celebration,” he wrote on Instagram. “At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people. I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions, as I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people.”
Appearing with streamers Adin Ross and N3on earlier this week, Nacua suggested that officials make penalty calls because they want to appear on television. He also practiced a suggested celebration in which he pantomimed spinning a ball, then flexed and rubbed his hands together. The rubbing of the hands has become a signature move for Ross that he acknowledges references a stereotype about Jewish people.
Ross, who is Jewish, has faced criticism for platforming white nationalist Nick Fuentes and an anonymous Neo-Nazi, among others.
The Rams, who are 11-3 and leading the race for the top seed in the NFC, play the 11-3 Seattle Seahawks on Thursday night. With fellow Rams receiver Davante Adams battling a hamstring injury, Nacua figures to play a major role in one of the most important games of the season.
Nacua, 24, is second in the NFL in catches (102) and receiving yards (1,367). He was selected by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft and made an immediate impact, earning second-team All-Pro status after leading the Rams with 105 catches for 1,486 yards, both rookie records at the time.
