Rams WR Nacua Sued for Alleged Biting, Antisemitic Remark

Lawsuit claims Nacua made offensive comment, bit two women at New Year's Eve gathering

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:27pm

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Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is being sued for allegedly making an antisemitic statement and biting two women during a New Year's Eve gathering in Los Angeles. The lawsuit claims Nacua said 'f-- all the Jews' and later bit one woman on the shoulder and another on the thumb, causing them to scream in pain.

Why it matters

This incident comes just weeks after Nacua had to apologize for a separate antisemitic incident involving a gesture connected to Jewish stereotypes. As a high-profile NFL player, Nacua's actions have drawn scrutiny and could impact his standing with the team and league.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Nacua made the antisemitic remark during a dinner on Dec. 31, which immediately made plaintiff Madison Atiabi 'uncomfortable and emotionally distressed' because she is Jewish. The suit also alleges that later that night, Nacua bit Atiabi on the shoulder and bit her friend on the thumb, causing her to 'scream in acute pain.' Nacua's attorney has denied the antisemitic remark but described the biting as 'horseplay,' and said Nacua is 'pursuing all available legal remedies' in response to the 'false and damaging statements.'

  • The alleged incidents occurred on New Year's Eve 2025.
  • A hearing in the lawsuit is set for April 14, 2026.

The players

Puka Nacua

A 24-year-old wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams who is being sued for alleged biting and making an antisemitic remark.

Madison Atiabi

The plaintiff in the lawsuit who claims Nacua made an antisemitic remark and bit her on the shoulder.

Levi McCathern

The attorney representing Puka Nacua, who has denied the antisemitic remark but acknowledged the biting as 'horseplay.'

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

A hearing is set for April 14, 2026 where the judge will decide on the lawsuit against Nacua.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing scrutiny on high-profile athletes' off-field conduct, especially related to allegations of hate speech and violence. It raises questions about accountability and the league's response to such incidents involving its players.