Puka Nacua enters rehab
Rams WR Puka Nacua has entered rehab, a move confirmed by his attorney and one that clouds Los Angeles’ offseason receiver plans. (x.com)
Attorney Levi McCathern says Nacua has been at a luxury treatment center in Malibu since March and “was in [the program] a substantial period of time before any of these allegations broke,” adding the receiver is scheduled to remain in care for “a while longer.” (espn.com) The civil complaint filed March 25 names plaintiff Madison Atiabi and alleges Nacua made an antisemitic exclamation and later bit Atiabi and a companion on New Year’s Eve; the suit lists gender violence, assault and battery, and negligence and notes a hearing set for April 14. (espn.com) McCathern has publicly denied the claims “in the strongest possible terms,” said his office has video evidence and multiple sober witnesses that contradict the complaint, and announced plans to file a defamation suit while alleging prior demands for money. (espn.com) Nacua’s lawyer told NFL Network the player will “complete the program in plenty of time to be involved in all of the Rams OTAs,” giving the team a timetable for his offseason availability. (espn.com) Head coach Sean McVay said the organization has been aware of the Century City incident since New Year’s Eve and emphasized gathering all information while expressing personal support for Nacua, and GM Les Snead said the club is “just focused on the human being” before addressing contract talks. (espn.com) Attorney Joseph Kar, who represents the plaintiff, withdrew an application for a temporary restraining order on March 27 while the civil lawsuit continues, according to court filings and reporting by TMZ and other outlets. (tmz.com)
