Rams' Nacua Reveals Stafford's Secret Before MVP Speech

Wide receiver Puka Nacua says Stafford told him he would return for 18th NFL season before announcing it at awards show.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua revealed on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show that quarterback Matthew Stafford secretly told him he would return for an 18th NFL season before announcing it during his MVP speech at the NFL Honors ceremony. Nacua said he was surprised but not shocked by the announcement, as Stafford had already shared the news with him privately.

Why it matters

Stafford's decision to return for another season reshapes the NFC West and provides stability for the Rams, who are preparing to host the first NFL regular-season game in Australia against the 49ers next year. Nacua's relationship with Stafford and inside knowledge of the quarterback's plans underscores the trust and continuity within the Rams' organization.

The details

During his MVP speech at the NFL Honors ceremony, Stafford waited until the end to announce that he would be returning for an 18th NFL season in 2026, surprising the audience. However, Nacua revealed that Stafford had already shared this information with him privately beforehand. Nacua said he was excited but tried to play it cool, not wanting to ruin the surprise for everyone else.

  • Stafford announced his return for the 2026 NFL season during his MVP speech at the NFL Honors ceremony.
  • Nacua revealed Stafford's secret on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show on February 7, 2026.

The players

Matthew Stafford

The veteran quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams who announced he would return for an 18th NFL season in 2026 after winning MVP.

Puka Nacua

The All-Pro wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams who revealed that Stafford had secretly told him about his plans to return before the announcement.

Sean McVay

The head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, who was shown excitedly reacting to Stafford's announcement that he would return for another season.

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What they’re saying

“Matthew is the absolute best. I knew he was coming back, and I still almost did a front flip in front of my mom. It was too awesome.”

— Puka Nacua, Wide Receiver, Los Angeles Rams (ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show)

What’s next

The Rams will play the 49ers in the first NFL regular-season game held in Australia next year.

The takeaway

Stafford's decision to return for another season with the Rams underscores the trust and continuity within the organization, as evidenced by his private conversation with star receiver Puka Nacua. This move solidifies the Rams as a contender in the NFC West and sets the stage for an exciting matchup against the 49ers in Australia next season.