Numerous NRL players have pursued the prospect of transitioning to the NFL, yet LA Rams standout Puka Nacua believes that only a handful of his fellow athletes could effectively make the shift the other way around.
The Rams wide receiver is well-acquainted with intense physicality on the field, but he acknowledges that the brutality of the NRL he witnessed last season left a lasting impression on him—and he has no desire to put himself in that sort of danger.
If anyone were to successfully navigate a transition to rugby league, Nacua identifies two Super Bowl champions as prime candidates.
The players he suggested are Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, both of whom he considers capable of making such a move.
Tyreek Hill #10 of the Miami Dolphins runs onto the field. Diamond Images/Getty Images
In the Eagles’ journey to clinch the Super Bowl LIX title this season, Barkley was instrumental, achieving 13 touchdowns during the regular season and another five in the playoffs.
His outstanding performance placed him second in the all-time rushing yards for a season, including playoffs, narrowly missing the record set by Terrell Davis in 1998.
Similarly, Hill’s remarkable speed has garnered him an eight-time selection to the Pro Bowl, and he was recognised on the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team as a punt returner.
“I like to think of myself as a physical player, but then I observe these guys and think… I’m not so sure I want to run straight into them,” Nacua remarked while being presented with a Warriors jersey by former Kangaroos star Aaron Woods.
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Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles and wide receiver Puka Nacua #17 of the Los Angeles Rams interact. Getty
“Players like Tyreek Hill or Saquon would thrive out there. They possess the required physicality… When I observe rugby league players, their lower body builds resemble that of linebackers.
“It’s crucial to find someone whose playstyle aligns with that of a linebacker.”
Nacua is anticipated to be among the many American sports stars attending the Allegiant Stadium for the inaugural match of the 2025 NRL season.
The event will commence with a Super League match between Wigan and Warrington, followed by the Canberra Raiders taking on the New Zealand Warriors.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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