Puka Nacua Apologizes After Controversial Incident

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua shared an apology for using an antisemitic trope while appearing on a livestream with controversial streamer Adin Ross on Tuesday (December 16).

“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. At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people," Nacua said in a statement shared on behalf of the 'Stand Up To Jewish Hate' campaign. “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.”

Ross, who claims to be Jewish, requested Nacua perform a touchdown celebration copying what his viewers called his "iconic Jewish dance," which included rubbing his hands together, mimicking the antisemitic caricature of a Jewish man symbolizing green commonly used on social media websites.

The NFL issued a statement condemning the incident on Thursday afternoon.

“The NFL strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and derogatory behavior directed towards any group or individual," the statement reads via USA TODAY. "The continuing rise of antisemitism must be addressed across the world, and the NFL will continue to stand with our partners in this fight. Hatred has no place in our sport or society.”

Ross gained notoriety from Twitch, a platform he was later banned from for using homophobic slurs and displaying racist and anti-Jewish messages from his live chat, as well as displaying pornographic images and promoting gambling to a younger audience during his livestreams, later joining Kick given its fewer rules and restrictions.

Nacua is in his third NFL season, having been selected as a Second-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler, as well as setting several rookie records in 2023. The former BYU standout is on pace to surpass his career-best totals from his rookie season in 2025, entering his Thursday Night Football game against the Seattle Seahawks with 102 receptions for 1,367 yards and six touchdowns.