"I might hit somebody on our team": Puka Nacua warns Rams teammate over swapping jerseys with Cooper Kupp as Seahawks WR returns to SoFi

Those who watched the Los Angeles Rams in 2023 and 2024 could attest to how similar Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua appeared on the field, particularly when it came to their ability to play out of the slot and make crucial receptions under pressure.

Much of that may be attributed to Kupp's mentoring of Nacua during his rookie season in 2023. However, since Kupp left the Rams this past offseason to join the Seattle Seahawks, the relationship between the seasoned receiver and his much younger colleague might have been put to the test.

Nacua and the Rams have been preparing for the unusual challenge of facing a former mentor when they take on the Seahawks at SoFi Stadium on Sunday.

Both teams will be ready for battle when they play in Week 11; there won't be any hostility, just football. But according to Nacua, Kupp's game-worn jersey will be in high demand following the game, and he would stop at nothing to earn it.

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In response to LA Daily News's Adam Grosbard about how he'd feel if Kupp exchanged jerseys with a Rams player on Sunday, Nacua jokingly said what he'd do to secure the jersey for himself.

"Honestly I'm hoping that he doesn't take it off, because if I see him take it off to somebody else, I might hit somebody on our team. Respectfully," Nacua said.

Nacua has never shied away from expressing his respect and admiration for the former NFL Offensive Player of the Year, even now that he's playing for a divisional rival.

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Cooper Kupp is getting ready for an emotional return to Los Angeles

Cooper Kupp will be back at SoFi Stadium for an NFC West game between the Los Angeles Rams (7-2) and the Seattle Seahawks (7-2) on Sunday. This game is the veteran receiver's first visit back to his old stomping grounds after playing for the Rams for the first eight seasons of his professional career.

"It’ll be mixed emotions. I have so much gratitude for the people there," Kupp said while speaking with The Times after practice last week. "But I’m going down there to play a game. I’ve spent countless hours preparing to beat that team."

Kupp was once the main attraction in the Rams' offense, but he played a supporting role as he helped Puka Nacua hone his skills and eventually handed the reins to the younger receiver in his final days on the team.

He has not produced consistently in Seattle after joining the Seahawks on a three-year, $45 million contract this past offseason. However, Kupp remains the team's second-leading wideout this season, recording 26 receptions for 367 yards and one score.

Kupp is also embracing a leadership role with the Seahawks, having been instrumental in the growth of receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the only player to have so far achieved 1,000 receiving yards this season.

Edited by nagpaltusharn25