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Apr 02, 2026

Los Angeles Rams' Puka Nacua Enters Rehab as Lawsuit Alleges Antisemitic Remark and Biting Incident

AI Summary
Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua began a rehab program before being sued by Madison Atiabi, who claims he made an antisemitic comment and bit her and a friend. His attorney denies the allegations, labeling the bites as horseplay and citing sober witnesses. Nacua, a league-leading receiver, is poised for a lucrative contract extension despite the controversy.

Puka Nacua, the Los Angeles Rams’ standout wide receiver, entered a rehabilitation program months before a civil suit was filed against him, according to his legal counsel.

Attorney Levi McCathern told The California Post that Nacua’s decision to seek treatment was not a reaction to the lawsuit, but an effort to "improve his overall behavior in every aspect of his life" and that he will remain in rehab for an extended period.

The plaintiff, Madison Atiabi, alleges that during a New Year’s Eve dinner in Los Angeles last year, Nacua uttered a profane anti‑Jewish slur and subsequently bit her shoulder, leaving visible teeth marks. She also claims Nacua bit a friend’s thumb with enough force to cause acute pain.

McCathern vehemently refutes the antisemitic accusation, describing the alleged bites as "horseplay" and citing multiple sober witnesses who assert that Nacua never made the offensive remarks attributed to him.

In December, Nacua issued a public apology after a livestream gesture was criticized for echoing antisemitic tropes, further intensifying scrutiny of his conduct.

On the field, the 24‑year‑old had a breakout season, leading the NFL with 129 receptions, 1,715 yards, and 10 touchdowns. He continued his dominance in the playoffs, topping the league with 24 catches for 332 yards and two touchdowns.

With his contract set to expire this offseason, Nacura is eligible for an extension that could rank him among the highest‑paid receivers in NFL history, though the Rams have yet to announce any negotiations.