Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has voluntarily entered a rehabilitation facility, his attorney Levi McCathern confirmed on Tuesday, April 1, 2026. The move comes as Nacua faces a civil lawsuit alleging assault and battery, as well as defamation, filed by Madison Atiabi.
The lawsuit, filed in a California civil court, stems from an alleged incident that took place on Modern Year’s Eve, December 31, 2025, in Los Angeles. Atiabi claims Nacua made antisemitic remarks and subsequently bit her on the shoulder during a night out with friends. She also alleges Nacua bit the thumb of a friend who was present.
“Puka takes responsibility for his well-being and increasing his performance during the offseason,” McCathern stated in a statement obtained by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. “So, in early March – before any temporary restraining order was filed by Madison Atiabi and subsequently denied by the Court – Puka voluntarily entered a holistic care facility to focus on his personal growth.”
McCathern emphasized that Nacua’s decision to seek treatment predates the legal action taken by Atiabi. He stated Nacua is “committed to using this time constructively so that he can return in the best possible position – both personally and professionally – to continue contributing to his team and the game he loves.” The Rams receiver is expected to complete the program in time for the start of organized team activities (OTAs).
The allegations against Nacua are serious. According to court documents obtained by ESPN, Atiabi alleges that Nacua made disparaging remarks about Jewish people, causing her discomfort due to her faith. She further claims that Nacua “violently” bit her on the left shoulder, leaving a circular scar. The lawsuit also alleges that Nacua bit Atiabi’s friend’s thumb with enough force to cause her to scream in pain.
This isn’t the first time Nacua has faced scrutiny for potentially offensive behavior. In December 2025, he issued a public apology for making a gesture during an internet livestream that was interpreted as antisemitic and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. NFL.com reported on the apology at the time.
The timeline of events reveals a prior attempt at resolution. According to Joseph Kar, Atiabi’s attorney, a representative of Nacua’s, Jennifer Falk, contacted Atiabi in February 2026 – roughly six weeks after the alleged biting incident – with an offer to “produce it all better.” This led to a mediation conference in Southern California on March 11, 2026, attended by Nacua’s legal team who traveled from Texas. However, the talks ultimately failed, and McCathern allegedly made threats to move public with damaging information about Atiabi to TMZ, as reported by The New York Post.
Following the unsuccessful mediation, Atiabi filed a request for a restraining order against Nacua, which was denied by the court. She subsequently filed a lawsuit against the NFL player, alleging violence, sexual battery, assault, and negligence.
McCathern and Falk have vehemently denied the allegations made by Atiabi, particularly the claim of antisemitic remarks. McCathern stated they have “several sober witnesses who discredit” Atiabi’s claim.
Nacua, drafted by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of BYU, has quickly become one of the league’s most productive receivers. His off-field issues, however, present a significant challenge for both the player and the organization. The Rams have reportedly been urging Nacua to focus on personal growth, and his decision to enter rehab appears to be a step in that direction.
The situation remains fluid. The civil lawsuit is ongoing, and the outcome will likely depend on the evidence presented by both sides. For now, Nacua’s focus is on his recovery and personal development, with the aim of returning to the field ready to contribute to the Rams’ success. The team is scheduled to begin OTAs in the coming weeks, and Nacua is expected to participate.
The Rams have not released an official statement beyond McCathern’s comments. Coach Sean McVay has yet to publicly address the situation.
Next up for the Los Angeles Rams is the continuation of their offseason program, with OTAs scheduled to begin soon. All eyes will be on whether Puka Nacua will be able to rejoin the team and continue his promising NFL career, both on and off the field.
