NFL Draft Prospects Predict the Next Puka Nacua

Every year, a few rookies surprise many and make big impacts at the next level.

In 2023, it was Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua.

Nacua started his collegiate career at Washington before transferring to BYU for his final two seasons. In 2022, he recorded 48 receptions for 625 yards and five touchdowns in nine games. 

Not much was expected when he was selected in the fifth round by the Rams, but he turned out to be one of the biggest surprises in the entire NFL.

Nakua finished his rookie season with 105 catches for 1,486 yards and six touchdowns. His 105 catches were two shy of the 107 he had during all four seasons in college.

So, who could be this year’s Nacua?

Several defensive backs weighed in at the NFL combine when asked who was the toughest player they had to cover last season.

Devaughn Vele, Utah

In 10 games last season, Vele had 43 catches for 593 yards and three touchdowns.

“I think he’s super underrated,” safety Cole Bishop said. “Whatever team gets him, he’s going to end up doing a lot of good things.” 

Rome Odunze, Washington

Odunze is one of the better wideouts of this class, recording back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons for the Huskies, and his peers expect him to make an immediate impact at the next level.

“He’s a guy who can do it all,” said Washington State defensive back Jaden Hicks. “[Washington] gave him the ball when they needed it. He makes a ton of plays.” 

Troy Franklin, Oregon

The strength of Franklin’s game is his speed and ability to make plays down the field. He had over 1,300 yards last year at Oregon.

“He’s just an all-around good receiver. He’s quick, and has great hands. A great ball player,” said Ryan Cooper, a defensive back from Oregon State

Keon Coleman, Florida State

Coleman is a very competitive wide receiver, finishing with 50 catches and 658 yards a year ago to go along with 11 touchdowns.

“He has really good body control,” Syracuse cornerback Isaiah Johnson said. “He runs good routes. He’s just a physical specimen.”