LA Rams: Puka Nacua apologizes for anti-Semitic gesture on live broadcast

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Pukka Nacua has apologized for making an anti-Semitic gesture during a live broadcast appearance.

Nacua, 24, was encouraged to perform the move as a potential new landing celebration during an appearance with internet personalities Adin Ross and Mikyle Rafi.

“One day when I appeared on a live stream on social media, he suggested that I do a certain move as part of my upcoming landing celebration,” Nakoa posted in a statement on Instagram. , external

“At the time, I had no idea that this act was inherently anti-Semitic and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people.

He added: “I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions because I do not support any form of racism, bigotry or hatred towards another group of people.”

In the live broadcast, Ross, who is Jewish, suggested that Nacua use a landing celebration in which he rubs his hands together — a gesture used as an anti-Semitic stereotype to portray Jewish people as greedy.

Nacua then activated the celebration several times and when Ross asked him if he would perform the celebration at a game, he said, “I promise you, I got you, man.”

The NFL said it “strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and degrading behavior directed toward any group or individual.”

Her statement added: “The continued rise of anti-Semitism around the world must be addressed. The NFL will continue to stand with our partners in this fight. Hate has no place in our sport or our society.”

California U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell condemned Nacua’s behavior in a social media post, saying the Rams receiver should “apologize or be dropped.”

Nacua, who is in his third season with the Rams, also criticized the referees during the live broadcast.

NFL players are subject to fines for publicly criticizing officials.

He is expected to address his comments further after the Rams take on the Seahawks in Seattle on Thursday night.