NFL: Los Angeles Rams star Nacua checked into rehab

Puka Nacua has entered a rehabilitation programme, according to his attorney, as legal proceedings continue following allegations made against the Los Angeles Rams wide receiver.

Lawyer Levi McCathern confirmed that Nacua had already been in rehab for a significant period before the claims became public, and is expected to remain there for some time.

The development comes after a lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles accusing the 24-year-old of making an antisemitic remark on New Year’s Eve and later assaulting a woman. The legal filing includes allegations of gender violence, assault and battery, and negligence.

Nacua has denied the accusations. In an earlier statement, his legal team said he rejects the claims “in the strongest possible terms” and pointed to video evidence they say contradicts the version of events outlined in the lawsuit.

McCathern added that the decision to enter rehab is part of a broader effort to address personal development.

He also indicated that Nacua is expected to complete the programme in time to participate in the team’s off-season activities.

Rams head coach Sean McVay said the organisation has been aware of the situation since it allegedly occurred and is continuing to assess the details.

“But man, you guys know, I trust this kid’s heart,” McVay said. “Love him, put your arm around him, want to continue to help him grow and really get all the appropriate facts before I kind of rush to judgment on that particular situation.”

The case follows a separate incident in December, when Nacua issued an apology for making a gesture during a livestream that he later acknowledged carried antisemitic connotations.

A fifth-round NFL draft pick in 2023, Nacua is now eligible for a contract extension. However, Rams general manager Les Snead suggested the club’s immediate focus lies elsewhere.

“Right now, we’re just focused on the human being and then we’ll get to that step,” Snead said. “We’ll let him continue becoming.”