Puka Nacua checks into rehab, will continue with NFL offseason duties
Apr 2, 2026, 3:23 PM | Updated: Apr 3, 2026, 8:46 am
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 10: Puka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams warms up before the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images)
(Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images)
Former BYU wide receiver Puka Nacua checked into a rehab facility this week to “focus on his personal growth,” according to his attorney.
The news broke on Wednesday after his attorney, Levi McCathern, released a statement and informed multiple outlets of Nacua’s decision.
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has checked into rehab, his attorney, Levi McCathern, told The California Post. pic.twitter.com/10jFfaJ5Rl
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 1, 2026
The statement from McCathern read:
Puka takes responsibility for his well-being and increasing his performance during the off-season. So, in early March – before any temporary restraining order was filed by Madison Atiabi and subsequently denied by the Court – Puka voluntarily entered a holistic care facility to focus on his personal growth. 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. He will complete the program in plenty of time to be involved in all of the Rams OTAs. Puka is also deeply grateful for the support he has received from his family, friends, coach (Sean) McVay, and teammates. It is unfortunate that a trivial lawsuit has drawn attention to Puka during a time when he is focused on becoming a better overall person. I am really excited to see what the future holds for this gifted young man.
Nacua comes off a career year with the Rams that saw him finish first in the NFL in receptions, second in receiving yards, and in the top six in receiving touchdowns. He played an integral role in Los Angeles’ run to the NFC Championship.
According to his attorney and other reports, Nacua will return to the team in time for OTAs and will be available for all other offseason responsibilities.
Nacua is eligible to sign a contract extension this offseason.
About Puka Nacua
Before his college career, the Provo, Utah native played high school football at Orem High School. He finished his career with the Tigers as the owner of multiple state records.
After high school, the receiver attended the University of Washington and played a couple of seasons for the Huskies.
After the 2020 season, Nacua returned home to Provo and immediately became a star for the Cougars.
Nacua finished his BYU career with a total of 91 catches for 1,430 yards and 11 touchdowns as well as 39 carries for 357 yards and five touchdowns on the ground.
Puka, man.
Gotta catch ’em all 🏈 pic.twitter.com/7rsLawwY3S
— NFL (@NFL) January 7, 2024
In April 2023, the Rams selected Nacua with the No. 177 overall pick during the fifth round of the NFL Draft.
Nacua finished his first season as a professional with an NFL rookie record 105 receptions for 1,486 yards. He also scored six touchdowns.
The rookie wideout received NFL All-Pro second-team honors for his play in 2023. He finished as the runner-up to C.J. Stroud for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Nacua’s sophomore campaign was plagued with injuries, but he still finished the season with 79 receptions for 990 yards and three touchdowns.
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