Rams’ Puka Nacua reacts to Matthew Stafford’s MVP return in 2026: ‘I almost did a backflip’

SAN FRANCISCO – There may be no one on the planet happier for Matthew Stafford than Puka Nacua.

The Los Angeles Rams quarterback, in his 17th NFL season, won his first MVP award Thursday night to all but cement what will likely be a Hall of Fame resume.

“I almost did a backflip,” Stafford star receiver Puka Nacua told News Digital on Radio Row.

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Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, left, greets quarterback Matthew Stafford before a game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on Dec. 7, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona. (Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

Additional celebration ensued, however, when Stafford officially committed to play next season.

“I knew he was coming back. I knew it. I was waiting for him to say it at some point. And when he said it, I still wanted to do a backflip. It was the best,” he said.

“No one deserves it more than him playing at such a high level in this last stage of his career. And the photo of him and his family is football heaven.”

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford reacts after throwing a touchdown pass against the New York Jets on Dec. 22, 2024, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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Nacua would be a stud no matter who pitched to him, but he definitely has Stafford to thank for his absurd numbers.

“I know I wouldn’t be where I am with the opportunities I’ve had to chase records, break records, be at a high level and be up there with the best. He’s been there every step of the way, and I’m glad to have him for another year.”

One more year? We’ll see.

Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams talk in the first quarter of a game against the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium on September 7, 2025, in Inglewood, California. (Harry How/Getty Images)

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“I won’t put a timeline on his career, but if I can win another Super Bowl, I hope he doesn’t give up after that.”

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