Puka Nacua took the field with his Rams teammates on Thursday, yet the media had different topics in mind beyond his athletic performance. Questions revolved around a more serious issue.
This was Nacua’s first media session since a lawsuit was filed against him in March, alleging he bit a woman on New Year’s Eve. Clearly upset about the lawsuit and the surrounding controversy, he addressed reporters with a distinct sense of anger.
While he avoided going into specifics regarding the woman’s claims, the Pro Bowl wide receiver did reflect on what he learned from this tough experience.
He stated, “The legal battle is still ongoing, so out of respect for the parties involved, I don’t have much to say. However, it served as a learning moment and has made me more mindful of my behavior both on and off the field.”
At the heart of the lawsuit, Madison Atiabi alleged that Nacua, during a New Year’s Eve outing in Los Angeles, tweeted an anti-Semitic slur and then bit her while traveling in a van.
Although criminal charges didn’t stem from the allegations, there is still a civil lawsuit in play. Following the public disclosure of the situation, Nacua voluntarily entered a rehabilitation facility.
When asked about his experience there, he was open. “I’ve realized it’s okay to ask for support. I’m becoming aware of my platform as a professional athlete and hope to use it positively for myself and those who support me.”
Nacua’s 25th birthday is on Friday, and he mentioned that he’s been seeing a Rams therapist regularly since leaving rehab. He even started journaling. “This has been a significant breakthrough for me,” he noted.
Regarding the implications for his contract and the upcoming season, Nacua stated that he doesn’t want to dwell on it too much. “I’ll let all those things take care of themselves,” he said.
Rams head coach Sean McVay also spoke with the media after team activities. He remarked on noticeable changes in Nacua since his rehab, saying, “The light got a little brighter.” McVay expressed gratitude for Nacua’s progress and underscored the support the team offers him.
“We hug him and will continue to support him,” McVay concluded.
