Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has checked into a luxury rehabilitation center in Malibu, his attorney confirmed Wednesday. The move follows a lawsuit filed by a woman alleging Nacua bit her during a drunken incident on New Year’s Eve. Attorney Levi McCathern stated his client entered treatment before the allegations became public to improve his overall behavior, while denying the bite was an attack and calling it mutual "horseplay."
Key Takeaways:
- Rams receiver Puka Nacua is undergoing treatment at a Malibu facility.
- The stay follows a lawsuit alleging he bit a woman after drinking on Dec. 31.
- Nacua’s attorney acknowledges the bite occurred but claims it was consensual play.
- The Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office is investigating the accuser’s claims.
- This is the second alcohol-related incident involving Nacua this offseason.
Attorney Confirms Rehab Stay, Disputes Allegations
Attorney Levi McCathern confirmed Nacua’s presence at the treatment center, which offers programs for substance abuse and mental health. McCathern stated the decision to enter rehab was not a direct response to the late March lawsuit but admitted media coverage was "a contributing factor." He emphasized Nacua had been in treatment for a "substantial period" before the story broke and plans to remain there to focus on personal improvement ahead of the next NFL season.
Lawsuit Details New Year’s Eve Allegations
The lawsuit stems from an incident alleged by 24-year-old Madison Atiabi. In court filings, Atiabi claims Nacua made antisemitic remarks at a dinner before biting her shoulder hard enough to "break skin" while in a vehicle later that evening. She filed for a restraining order, which was later withdrawn to focus on the civil lawsuit. McCathern has denied any antisemitic comments were made by his client.
Second Offseason Incident Involving Alcohol
This lawsuit represents the second public incident this offseason where Nacua’s conduct involved alcohol. During Super Bowl week in San Francisco, video surfaced showing the receiver stumbling and dancing in a street after a party. The combination of events has drawn scrutiny, with prosecutors from the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office now investigating Atiabi’s claims.
Expert Analysis: "An athlete entering treatment proactively is often viewed as a responsible step, but the timing relative to serious legal allegations complicates the narrative," explained Dr. Elena Vance, a sports psychologist specializing in public behavior. "The core issue for the team and the league will be verifying the facts of the alleged assault while assessing the player’s commitment to addressing any underlying behavioral patterns."
Sources
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/puka-nacua-has-entered-rehab
https://www.profootballrumors.com/2026/04/rams-wr-puka-nacua-checked-into-rehab-facility-in-march
