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Rams’ Puka Nacua Flagged for Taunting After First-Down Celebration in Loss to Eagles

Enforced under this season’s stricter taunting focus, the call drew on-air pushback, leaving Nacua seeking clarity from officials.

Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) celebrates after making a catch for a first down during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Overview

  • Late in the third quarter in Philadelphia, Nacua was penalized 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct after a 20-yard catch and celebratory flex, point and ball spin.
  • An official interpreted the gesture as directed at Eagles linebacker Jihaad Campbell, triggering the taunting flag.
  • The markoff moved Los Angeles back from the Eagles’ 40 and the Rams turned the ball over on downs four plays later.
  • Fox analyst Greg Olsen said the act did not fit the spirit of the taunting rule, with play-by-play announcer Joe Davis questioning how ‘direction’ is judged.
  • Nacua said he received no explanation for the call, noted he routinely celebrates similarly, and finished with 11 catches for 112 yards in the 33-26 defeat.