All-Pro wide receiver Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams has reportedly checked into a rehabilitation facility due to some off-field issues. He’s facing accusations of assault and battery from a woman who claims he bit her shoulder during an incident on New Year’s Eve.
While no immediate confirmation has been provided by Nacua’s attorney or the Rams organization, his attorney did mention that Nacua had been in rehab prior to these allegations and intends to stay longer. The lawyer, Levi McCassan, stated that the combination of circumstances surrounding the allegations is a factor, and emphasized that Nacua is committed to improving his overall behavior.
The woman involved, Madison Atiabi, alleges that Nacua bit her and left a mark while they were together in a van, also claiming he bit a friend’s thumb. McCassan strongly denied any accusations of anti-Semitic remarks made by Nacua, suggesting that the bite incident was a misunderstanding.
Atiabi, accompanied by her attorney, claims that Nacua shouted anti-Semitic slurs that resulted in emotional distress. McCassan characterized the lawsuit as an attempted shakedown, downplaying the bite as a “temporary trace.”
This isn’t the first time Nacua has faced backlash. He apologised last year for his behavior in a live stream, which some interpreted as reinforcing harmful stereotypes after a controversial touchdown celebration.
On a football note, Nacua had an impressive season last year, recording 129 catches for 1,715 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, setting personal bests across the board.
