Puka Nacua Controversy: NFL, Rams Respond to Livestream Gesture

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has issued a public apology following backlash over a gesture made during a recent livestream that was widely interpreted as antisemitic.

The incident occurred during a December 16, 2025, livestream with popular internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on. While discussing potential touchdown celebrations ahead of the Rams’ Thursday Night Football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Ross suggested a routine involving spinning the ball, flexing, and then rubbing hands together while staring at the camera.

The hand-rubbing gesture is a longstanding antisemitic trope, often associated with stereotypes portraying Jewish people as greedy or money-obsessed, commonly referenced in online memes like the “Happy Merchant.”

Nacua, appearing unaware of the implication, practiced the gesture on stream, called it “easy,” and expressed intent to perform it during the game if he scored.

Clips from the stream quickly spread on social media, drawing sharp criticism amid heightened global sensitivity to antisemitism. California Congressman Eric Swalwell condemned the gesture as insensitive. Veteran broadcaster Al Michaels briefly referenced the controversy during the game broadcast, noting Nacua’s subsequent apology.

On December 18, Nacua posted a statement on Instagram:

“I want to sincerely apologize for the celebration gesture that was shown on the stream. I had no idea that it was offensive or carried any negative meaning. I do not condone or support racism, bigotry, or hate of any kind. I am truly sorry to anyone who was hurt or offended.”

The Los Angeles Rams organization and the NFL also released statements condemning antisemitism and all forms of hate.

In the game itself, Nacua scored two touchdowns but opted for subdued celebrations, avoiding the planned gesture.

Adin Ross, who is Jewish and initially suggested the move, has faced scrutiny in the past for platforming controversial figures but has not publicly commented on this specific incident as of publication.

Nacua, a second-year standout of Samoan-American heritage who exploded onto the scene as a rookie in 2023, emphasized his lack of malicious intent. The episode serves as a reminder of how quickly actions in the digital age—especially by high-profile athletes—can spark widespread debate.