Puka Nacua didn’t have great expectations going into the NFL, but after an incredible rookie season in which he broke numerous records, he’s now regarded as one of the game’s top wide receivers. The effect is that going into Year 2, the bar has been lifted significantly.

Nacua might once again be Matthew Stafford’s go-to target on offense, even with Cooper Kupp available. If he continues to improve and stay healthy, he has a good chance of surpassing the 1,500 yard milestone in 2024. He came close to doing so in the previous season.

Nacua, who is starting his second season in the league, claims he isn’t under any more pressure after his incredible 2023 campaign.

According to NFL.com, Nacua stated on NFL Network, “No, not really.” Every week brought a new challenge, along with our opponents. I also had to make sure I could best prepare myself so that I could be there on Sunday and give it my all. It will undoubtedly be difficult to just try to reset the benchmark this year, in my opinion. Coach [Sean] McVay demands a lot of us from the offensive side of the ball, and last year I wanted to develop in the ways I know I can and to be there for my team in whatever capacity. I’m incredibly looking forward to the trials this year.

It will be challenging for Nacua to surpass his season-long performance in 2021, just as it was for Kupp to follow up his triple crown campaign. It won’t be a disappointment if he ends with less than 1,486 yards.

Even if the stats don’t improve, Los Angeles should be happy as long as he becomes better, decreases the number of drops, and still has a big impact on the Rams every week.