SEATTLE — Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua apologized Thursday for performing an antisemitic gesture on a celebrity’s livestream, a move that sparked backlash from a US congressman and a condemnation from the National Football League.

Nacua appeared on a livestream earlier in the week hosted by internet personality Adin Ross, who is himself Jewish, and suggested that Nacua perform the gesture as a touchdown celebration. The NFL star said he would and demonstrated how it would look.

On Thursday, Nacua posted his apology in an Instagram post.

“I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people,” he said. “I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions, as I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people.”

The statement was posted on a blue square, the logo for the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate.

California congressman Eric Swalwell was among those who criticized Nacua, saying it was especially insensitive in light of the 

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