NFL star Puka Nacua already has post-retirement plans—overseas basketball might be his next move

Puka Nacua, one of the NFL’s most exciting young wide receivers, has stirred quite the conversation—not because of his record-breaking rookie campaign, but due to an unexpected revelation about his career longevity. While most players shy away from addressing retirement early in their careers, Nacua openly stated that he envisions stepping away from football at the age of 30, leaving fans and analysts equally surprised.

Puka Nacua sets sights on pro hoops after hanging up his football cleats

Appearing on Julian Edelman’s podcast Games With Names, Puca Nacua opened up about his future beyond the gridiron. What followed was a mix of serious insight and light-hearted ambition. Edelman, a former New England Patriots wideout, didn’t hesitate to caution the rising Rams star. “One player to another. This is between you and I. No one’s listening to this,” Edelman said. “Don’t ever tell the other side any edge. We’re talking negotiations. I’ll get you a couple more shekels. If it’s there, it’s there. You don’t say it.”


The concern was valid—revealing retirement plans too early can create doubts for team management and possibly affect future contract talks. Yet Nacua responded calmly, explaining that he was simply answering a question. “I don’t really think about it,” he said. “They asked the question but I want to go play overseas basketball.”

That dream, as far-fetched as it may seem, appears rooted in his love for the sport and his knack for creativity. He wasn’t just throwing around fantasies—Nacua laid out an entire plan. “I want to play football, take that money – LaMelo Ball went to Lithuania. Like, I’m sure I could go to another country that only 25% of the world’s ever heard before, get ownership in the team and go do the Michael Jordan route,” Nacua said. “I’m gonna get 25 shots up a night. I’m gonna be the coach, I’m gonna sub my own minutes in, and then I’m gonna make sure that we’re getting ticket sales at the end of it. Try to work some actual business. Do it the right way.”

Whether he was serious or just being playful, one thing is certain—Nacua has no shortage of personality or ambition. He even joked about creating his own legacy on and off the court. While critics may question his seriousness, it’s worth noting that he once played in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game and showed legitimate hoop skills.

Until that whimsical chapter begins, Nacua remains firmly focused on football—and winning. “After we win that Super Bowl, hopefully it’ll be a done deal,” he said. “There’s no question about it. Like, they want me to stay here and hopefully make L.A. my home and we’ll take over.”

Puka Nacua’s vision for the future may be unorthodox, but it’s undeniably compelling—just like his rise in the NFL.

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