Rams' Nacua Enters Rehab Amid Assault Allegations

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has checked into a rehabilitation center following accusations of assault and battery. A woman named Madison Atiabi claims Nacua bit her shoulder and her friend's thumb during an incident in a van on New Year's Eve. The allegations also include an antisemitic remark made in Century City.

Nacua's attorney, Levi McCathern, stated that Nacua entered rehab for a substantial period before the allegations surfaced and plans to remain longer. McCathern denied any antisemitic statements, described the bites as horseplay that left only a temporary mark, and called the lawsuit a shakedown attempt. Neither the attorney nor the Rams responded immediately to requests for comment.

Nacua previously apologized for an act deemed antisemitic during a YouTube stream last year. The incident involved a touchdown celebration where he rubbed his hands together, a gesture some viewed as perpetuating a harmful stereotype after prompting by the Jewish streamer Adin Ross.

Last season, Nacua set career highs with 129 receptions for 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns as an All-Pro selection.