Rams' Nacua Checks into Rehab Amid Assault Claims
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has entered a rehabilitation center amid accusations of assault and battery and an alleged antisemitic remark. A woman identified as Madison Atiabi claims Nacua bit her shoulder and her friend's thumb during an incident in a van on New Year's Eve. Nacua's attorney, Levi McCathern, described the bites as horseplay and denied any antisemitic statements.
Atiabi and her attorney, Joseph Kar, allege Nacua made an antisemitic exclamation that caused emotional distress during an encounter in Century City. McCathern called the lawsuit a shakedown attempt, noting the bite left only a temporary mark. Neither McCathern nor the Rams responded immediately to requests for comment, though McCathern told the New York Post that Nacua entered rehab before the allegations surfaced and plans to remain for an extended period to improve his behavior.
Nacua previously apologized for an antisemitic gesture during a YouTube stream last year hosted by Adin Ross. The wide receiver rubbed his hands together as part of a touchdown celebration demonstration, a move some viewed as invoking a harmful Jewish stereotype despite Ross describing it as his own dance.
Last season, Nacua set career highs with 129 receptions for 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns as an All-Pro selection for the Rams.
