Sport

Puka Nacua's Shocking Retirement Plan: Will He Really Hang Up His Cleats at 30?

2025-03-24

Author: Jessica Wong

In a surprising revelation that has fans buzzing, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has declared that he plans to retire from the NFL by the age of 30. During a candid conversation on the "Join The Lobby" podcast, the 23-year-old player, who is set to turn 24 in May, opened up about his future in football and life after the game.

“I know I want to retire at the age of 30,” Nacua stated, emphasizing his desire for a relatively short football career. He elaborated, “I’m going into Year 3, so it wouldn’t even be 10 years. It’d be maybe seven or eight. I think of Aaron Donald; to go out at the top, I think it would be super cool.” Nacua admires the success and timing of fellow Rams player Donald, who hung up his jersey after a stellar 10 seasons.

But Nacua's motivations extend beyond the gridiron. “I want to have a big family,” he explained, envisioning a household full of kids, ideally “at least a starting five.” Coming from a large family himself, he dreams of having five boys and being an active participant in their lives. “The injuries are something you can’t control as part of the game,” he reflected, acknowledging the physical toll that a football career can exact, and the potential for injuries that can hinder mobility later in life.

Nacua's decision to retire early is bold, especially given the luxury of a long NFL career that many aspiring players dream of. As a fifth-round pick in the 2023 draft, he still has time to rethink his plans, but for now, he appears steadfast in his intentions.

As fans eagerly await his performance in the upcoming season, the question arises: Will this promising young star stick to his retirement plan, or could a change of heart lead him to extend his time in the league? Only time will tell if Nacua’s desire for a balanced family life will outweigh the allure of a longer football career filled with accolades and glory.