Puka Nacua
Puka Nacua Puka Nacua/Instagram

Puka Nacua, a wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, has entered a rehabilitation facility, his attorney confirmed on 1 April, following allegations linked to a New Year's Eve incident in Los Angeles.

Attorney Levi McCathern told The California Post that Nacua had been in treatment for a 'substantial period of time' before the allegations became public and is expected to remain there for several more weeks. The update was also reported by Adam Schefter on X.

The development comes after a civil lawsuit was filed in late March by Madison Atiabi, who alleges assault, battery and the use of antisemitic language. The claims have not been proven in court.

Allegations Detailed In Lawsuit

According to reporting by The Post, the lawsuit centres on an alleged incident on 31 December in Century City. Atiabi claims Nacua acted inappropriately during the evening and bit her shoulder, causing injury. She also alleges he used antisemitic language during the encounter.

The filing states the incident took place while the group was travelling between venues, with alcohol consumption earlier in the evening forming part of the account presented in court documents.

The lawsuit includes additional claims of negligence and seeks damages. Atiabi has since withdrawn a request for a restraining order in order to focus on the civil case, according to reports.

Legal Response And Denials

Nacua's attorney has disputed key elements of the claims. McCathern has denied that any antisemitic remarks were made and has described the physical interaction as 'horseplay'. He also stated that the player's stay in rehabilitation was not initiated in response to the lawsuit, but was part of an ongoing effort to address personal behaviour.

McCathern said Nacua's aim is to 'improve his overall behaviour in every aspect of his life'. The attorney added that Nacua is in 'great spirits' while undergoing treatment.

Rehabilitation And Timeline

Photographs published in reports show Nacua attending a treatment facility in Malibu during March. The programme reportedly focuses on issues including substance use, mental health and behavioural support.

McCathern said the timing of the stay may appear linked to recent coverage, but maintained that the player had already been in treatment before the lawsuit was filed.

The length of the programme has not been specified, though it is expected to continue into the off-season.

Impact On Career

Nacua's situation comes during a key period in his professional career. After a strong season with the Rams, he is eligible for a potential contract extension.

The organisation has acknowledged the situation but has not announced any disciplinary action. There has also been no indication of league sanctions while the legal process is ongoing.

Cases involving off-field conduct are typically reviewed under the NFL's personal conduct policy, which can result in disciplinary measures independent of court proceedings.

Ongoing Proceedings

The civil case remains active, and the allegations have not been tested in court. Prosecutors in Los Angeles are reported to be reviewing aspects of the complaint, though no charges have been confirmed.

For now, the focus remains on the legal process and Nacua's time in rehabilitation. Further developments are expected as the case progresses.

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