Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is receiving treatment at a rehab facility for undisclosed issues, his attorney confirmed to multiple outlets on Wednesday.
The two-time All-Pro is being sued by a woman who claims Nacua bit her on the shoulder and made antisemitic comments when they were in a van together on New Year’s Eve.
His attorney, Levi McCathern, said the pass catcher “voluntarily entered a holistic care facility to focus on his personal growth” in early March before the lawsuit was filed.
“He is committed to using this time constructively so that he can return in the best possible position — both personally and professionally — to continue contributing to his team and the game he loves,” Mr. McCathern said.
Nacua is eligible for a contract extension this offseason, but off-field issues have complicated the Rams’ decision to pay the elite receiver. The BYU product issued a public apology after making antisemitic gestures on a livestream in December.
“Right now, we’re just focused on the human being, and then we’ll get to that step,” Rams general manager Les Snead said at this week’s NFL owners meetings. “We’ll let him continue becoming.”
“The play on the field is amazing, and with what the play has dictated and determined, there’s a responsibility in terms of representing all things — not exclusive to just that. He knows that. Those are the expectations,” Rams coach Sean McVay said Monday. “We’re hopeful that will be something that this is an opportunity for him to learn and grow.”
The Rams have not issued a public statement regarding Nakua’s stint in a care facility. Mr. McCathern said his client will remain in the facility for an extended period, though the receiver expects to be ready for the team’s offseason workouts in May and June.
• This story is based in part on wire service reports.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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