Puka Nacua Remains Under NFL Review Heading Into Week 1
Puka Nacua avoided the Commissioner's Exempt List when rosters were finalized Sunday, meaning he is on the Rams' 53-man roster and eligible to play, but his status for Week 1 remains unresolved as the NFL continues its review of off-field allegations heading into the season.
The situation stems from an alleged incident on New Year's Eve in which a Los Angeles woman named Madison Atiabi filed a civil lawsuit claiming Nacua bit her on the shoulder and made antisemitic remarks.
Nacua's attorney acknowledged a bite occurred but characterized it as consensual horseplay. No criminal charges have been filed. A civil trial date of March 27, 2028 was set by a Los Angeles County judge. The NFL is conducting its own investigation separate from the civil proceeding.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that a suspension is possible before Week 1 and that when the Rams open against the 49ers in Melbourne, Australia on September 10, "it's within the realm of options that Puka doesn't play in that game."
The Rams have been preparing for that contingency, they re-acquired receiver Tutu Atwell from Miami in recent weeks. Nacua's knee injury from practice, which initially raised its own questions, has been cleared.
He led the NFL with 129 receptions and 1,715 yards last season. The Rams are favored to reach the Super Bowl. His Week 1 availability remains officially unknown.
