A viral two-word post during the Super Bowl sparked controversy across the NFL — but now Puka Nacua says it wasn’t meant as an insult to Sam Darnold. 🏈👀

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Puka Nacua Explains Viral “Sam Darnold” Super Bowl Post

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has finally explained the story behind his viral social media post about Sam Darnold during Super Bowl LX.

During the championship game on Feb. 8, Nacua posted simply:

“sam darnold 😂”

The message quickly spread across social media, with many fans interpreting it as a jab at the Seattle Seahawks quarterback.

But according to Nacua, that wasn’t his original intention.

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The Moment That Sparked the Post

Speaking on the “One Night with Steiny” podcast, Nacua explained that his post came after noticing a humorous moment during the game.

At one point in the Super Bowl, Darnold attempted to take a knee and accidentally fell into a Patriots defender’s lap.

According to Nacua:

“He tries to take a knee and kind of falls into the Patriots guy’s lap. The guy tries to help him up and he doesn’t take it.”

That awkward interaction made Nacua laugh — which prompted the spontaneous post.

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The Internet Took It as Trash Talk

Once the post went viral, many fans assumed Nacua was mocking Darnold.

Instead of clarifying immediately, Nacua admitted he leaned into the narrative.

“I was like, ‘All right, I’m not going to explain myself now.’ It was too far already.”

The moment even drew reactions from other NFL players, further fueling the online debate.

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Nacua Actually Praised Darnold

Despite the viral controversy, Nacua said he actually respects Darnold’s journey in the league.

Darnold helped lead the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory, defeating the New England Patriots 29-13.

Nacua acknowledged the quarterback’s impressive comeback story.

“He does have like a crazy journey of being in the NFL.”

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Rivalry Fuel: Seahawks vs. Rams

Nacua also admitted that the situation could help intensify the rivalry between the Rams and Seahawks.

The two NFC West teams already share one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions.

Nacua joked that the viral moment might even boost viewership when the teams face each other.

“That’s going to make sure everybody watches our games when we play them.”