Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Puka Nacua voluntarily admitted himself to a rehabilitation center in March, his legal representative confirmed Wednesday.
Lawyer Levi McCathern revealed that Nacua enrolled in the facility before a woman filed for a temporary restraining order and initiated civil litigation against the player.
“Puka takes responsibility for his well-being and increasing his performance during the offseason,” McCathern stated in a release shared with NFL Network. “So, in early March … Puka voluntarily entered a holistic care facility to focus on his personal growth.”
The 24-year-old receiver earned All-Pro honors after leading the NFL with 129 receptions for 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns in 16 games during the previous season, though recent controversies have overshadowed his on-field success.
Last December, Nacua drew criticism for performing what appeared to be an antisemitic gesture during a touchdown celebration on a live broadcast. He subsequently issued an apology, stating he “had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature.”
The current legal case involves allegations stemming from a New Year’s Eve incident that became public last week. The lawsuit accuses the young receiver of making antisemitic comments at a dinner gathering and allegedly biting two women during separate encounters.
McCathern has disputed claims about any offensive remarks and characterized the biting incidents as “horseplay.”
Speaking to multiple media outlets Wednesday, McCathern attempted to present his client more favorably, explaining that Nacua sought treatment to “improve his overall behavior in every aspect of his life.”
The attorney’s statement to NFL Network emphasized that “He 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.”
According to the statement, Nacua plans to finish the rehabilitation program before the Rams begin their organized team activities, which typically occur in late May or early June.
The civil complaint against Nacua includes charges of gender violence, assault and battery, and negligence.
Since being selected by Los Angeles in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft from BYU, Nacua has earned two Pro Bowl honors across three seasons, accumulating 313 catches for 4,191 yards and 19 touchdowns. His performance makes him eligible for a contract extension.
Rams officials have remained cautious about publicly discussing extension plans, instead emphasizing the importance of Nacua’s development both on and off the playing field.
“We are hopeful that he’s a Ram for a really long time, but he understands what the responsibility is, not exclusive to just the production on the field,” head coach Sean McVay commented earlier this offseason.
