2025 NFL free agency: Puka Nacua gives up jersey No. 17 for new Rams receiver Davante Adams

Puka Nacua has a new running mate at wide receiver.

And now he has a new jersey number.

The Los Angeles Rams announced Tuesday that Nacua will wear No. 12 moving forward after wearing No. 17 during his first two NFL seasons. The Rams announced the change with a social media video and quote from Nacua referencing “family” and “armor.”

“I know when I put on that number 12, it’s a piece of armor that’s representing my family that is always protecting me,” Nacua’s quote reads.

But the reason for the switch is obvious. Davante Adams is coming to town. And he’s worn No. 17 throughout his NFL career.

Adams joined the Rams on Sunday via a two-year, $46 million contract. He’ll start at wide receiver alongside Nacua. Cooper Kupp is widely expected to be on his way out via either trade or release.

Though Nacua is now the established returning Rams leader at the position, he’s ceding No. 17 to Adams, a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro who’s approaching his 12th NFL season.

Nacua has quickly made his own mark in two NFL seasons that produced a Pro Bowl berth during his rookie campaign. He’s apparently fine with giving up his jersey number to the new guy and now senior member of the wide receiver room.

Nacua spoke Monday about negotiations with Adams.

“I’ve been the one wearing 17, so hopefully I’ll be a good negotiator,” Nacua told “The Pat McAfee Show,” per Pro Football Talk.

It’s unclear what, if anything, Adams gave up for No. 17. But the number appears to be his.

Nacua, meanwhile, will revert to the No. 12 he wore in college at Washington and BYU. The number has a special place in his heart in part thanks to a rival NFC West team.

Per ESPN’s Sarah Barshop, Nacua had this to say about his first road game facing the Seattle Seahawks and their famed 12th man during his rookie eason:

“I remember telling [Kupp], ‘Man, I know they mentioned it’s going to be loud, and it’s going to be crazy, but I’m like, ‘They don’t know,” Nacua said. “Twelve. I’m 12. I’m like, ‘That’s me.'”