The Los Angeles Rams’ receiving corps will see a change in jersey numbers next season. Puka Nacua, who previously wore No. 17, will now switch to No. 12, as announced by the team on Tuesday, following the Rams’ reported acquisition of Davante Adams. “It’s been a family number,” Nacua explained in a video, “I wore it in my Little League football years all the way through high school and into college.”
Los Angeles Rams: Puka Nacua Gives Davante Adams No. 17
The switch to No. 12, the same number he wore at BYU, is now official.
This decision comes after Nacua’s appearance on the “St. Brown Podcast,” where he playfully stated he wouldn’t relinquish No. 17 for $2 million when asked by Amon-Ra St. Brown. The conversation was lighthearted, with Nacua even joking about Adams’ endorsement deals, implying he could afford a hefty sum for the number.
However, the reality of Adams’ arrival likely prompted the change. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Adams agreed to a two-year, $46 million deal with the Rams, including $26 million guaranteed. Adams, who has earned over $129.5 million in his career according to Spotrac, has consistently worn No. 17 with the Green Bay Packers, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Jets. When the Jets acquired Adams in 2024, rookie receiver Malachi Corley switched from No. 17 to No. 14 to accommodate him.
While Nacua, a Pro Bowler with 1,486 receiving yards in his rookie season, holds a more prominent status than Corley, Adams’ veteran stature and established career likely played a role in the decision. Furthermore, any financial compensation for the number would be significant for Nacua, who is currently on a four-year, $4.1 million contract.
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