- Puka Nacua apologized after mimicking a gesture on a livestream that has been flagged as antisemitic.
- Nacua said he “had no idea” the celebration perpetuated harmful stereotypes and issued a public apology.
- The NFL condemned discrimination; Nacua may face fines for comments about officials.
- Video clips and reactions, including a call for an apology from Rep. Eric Swalwell, circulated on social media.
H2: Rams receiver issues apology after livestream gesture
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua publicly apologized after a livestream appearance in which he mimicked a touchdown celebration that has been identified as referencing an antisemitic caricature. Nacua said he was unaware the movement was offensive and wrote that he does not stand for racism, bigotry or hate.
In his Instagram statement, Nacua wrote: “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. 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.” (See full post: https://www.instagram.com/pukaizded/p/DSanLb1EWKv/?hl=en)
H3: What happened on the stream
The incident occurred during a livestream hosted by content creator Adin Ross. Video shows Nacua spike the ball, flex and then perform a hand gesture that social-media users say references an antisemitic caricature that has circulated on forums such as 4chan. Ross encouraged Nacua to use the celebration in an upcoming game; Nacua agreed on the stream.
Shortly after the clip circulated, California congressman Eric Swalwell posted on X demanding an apology from the receiver and calling attention to community concerns. Nacua’s comments about NFL officials earlier in the stream — saying refs call penalties to get on television — are also likely to draw league discipline.
H4: NFL response and possible consequences
The NFL released a statement condemning discrimination and affirming it will stand with partners to address antisemitism. The league said: “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.” The league has a history of fining players for inappropriate on- and off-field conduct, and Nacua could face penalties for his comments and behavior.
H5: What’s next — the game and reactions
Nacua is expected to play Thursday night against the Seattle Seahawks in a key NFC West matchup. The team and league could decide on further discipline before kickoff depending on any internal review. Social media reactions and public statements are likely to continue as the NFL and community leaders respond.
Embedded posts and sources:
- Nacua Instagram apology: https://www.instagram.com/pukaizded/p/DSanLb1EWKv/?hl=en
- NFL statement posted via Ian Rapoport: https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2001742726220468283
- Adam Schefter tweet: https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2001744174626820386
- Puka Nacua (X): https://x.com/AsapPuka
This article focuses on the apology, public reaction and potential league response to the livestream incident.
Image Referance: https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/puka-nacua-apologizes-after-promising-he-would-do-an-antisemitic-touchdown-celebration-i-had-no-idea-194408536.html