Rams Star Puka Nacua Enters Rehab After New Year's Incident

Nacua's attorney says the treatment is not related to a lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:40pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

L.A. Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, 24, has enrolled himself in a luxury rehab center in Malibu, California, following an alleged drunken domestic incident on New Year's Eve. Nacua's attorney, Levi McCathern, stated that the rehab is not the result of a lawsuit filed against the player by his former girlfriend, Madison Atiabi, who is accusing Nacua of gender violence, assault, and battery, as well as making an antisemitic remark during the incident.

Why it matters

Nacua is a rising star in the NFL, and this incident raises concerns about his off-field behavior and potential substance abuse issues. The lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend also highlights the broader issue of domestic violence in professional sports.

The details

According to reports, Nacua became intoxicated and 'touchy feely' with women at a New Year's Eve party in 2025. Atiabi, who is Jewish, claims Nacua made an 'unprovoked antisemitic statement' during the incident, which left her 'immediately felt uncomfortable and emotionally distressed.' Atiabi also filed photos of bite marks on her back, which she says Nacua caused. However, Nacua's attorney has denied all allegations, stating that the player is 'working to improve his overall behavior in every aspect of his life.'

  • On New Year's Eve 2025, the alleged incident occurred.
  • In early 2026, Nacua enrolled himself in a luxury rehab center in Malibu.
  • In April 2026, Nacua's former girlfriend, Madison Atiabi, filed a lawsuit against him.

The players

Puka Nacua

A 24-year-old wide receiver for the L.A. Rams who has enrolled himself in a luxury rehab center in Malibu, California, following an alleged drunken domestic incident on New Year's Eve 2025.

Madison Atiabi

Nacua's former girlfriend who has filed a lawsuit against him, accusing him of gender violence, assault, battery, and making an antisemitic remark during the New Year's Eve incident.

Levi McCathern

Nacua's attorney, who has denied all allegations against his client and stated that the rehab is not the result of the lawsuit filed by Atiabi.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was in there a substantial period of time before any of these allegations broke with Madison, and he's scheduled to be there for a while longer.”

— Levi McCathern, Nacua's attorney

“They continue to make up stories trying to turn this minor episode into big dollars. In the end, they are going to be paying Puka and not the other way around.”

— Levi McCathern, Nacua's attorney

What’s next

The judge in the lawsuit filed by Madison Atiabi will determine if the case will proceed to trial.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges professional athletes face with off-field behavior and the need for comprehensive support systems to help players address personal issues before they escalate. The lawsuit also underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence and promoting a culture of respect and accountability in the NFL.