Nacua's Rehab and Return
Los Angeles Rams Receiver Puka Nacua Reveals Alcohol Struggles and Rehab Program
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Key Points
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Nacua said he entered the rehabilitation center in March, where he began having “open and honest conversations” about the issues he had been avoiding.
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Nacua said his recovery has changed how he thinks about fatherhood, telling Netflix that he hopes to become someone his son will be proud of and eventually share lessons from the mistakes he has made.
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The Rams face a significant financial decision because Nacua is entering the final year of his rookie contract; the article notes that Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s new deal averages more than $42 million annually, providing a benchmark for a potential extension.
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Nacua’s rapid rise began with his selection as a fifth-round pick from BYU in 2023, followed by a record-setting season that turned him into a public figure within two years.
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In his apology for the livestream incident, Nacua said he “had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature,” while describing the gesture as something that perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people.
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua revealed he entered a rehabilitation program during the offseason after turning to alcohol to cope with the pressures of sudden NFL stardom, high performance demands, and fatherhood. NBC New York reported that in a Netflix interview before the Rams' season opener in Australia, the 25-year-old described being "kind of drowning" himself with alcohol during what he called "the darkest times" of his life.
Nacua said therapy and honest conversations have helped him move forward. The All-Pro receiver led the NFL last season with 129 catches, 1,715 yards, and 10 touchdowns. His recovery comes as he faces pending legal troubles and potential NFL discipline that could shape both his immediate future and the Rams' contract decisions.
From Fifth-Round Pick to NFL Star in Two Years
Nacua's rise was incredibly fast. The Rams drafted him in the fifth round from Brigham Young University in 2023. Just one season later, he broke NFL records and became a household name. NBC Bay Area noted that this rapid climb to fame created immense pressure on the young player.
The sudden shift from college player to celebrity came with unexpected challenges. Nacua struggled to handle the spotlight, open up about his fears, and ask for help when he needed it. These unspoken struggles eventually led him to harmful coping mechanisms during his darkest period.
How Alcohol Became His Way to Cope
Nacua said he turned to alcohol as a way to manage the stress of fame, performance pressure, and the demands of being a father. AOL reported that he acknowledged feeling overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities at once. The weight of fatherhood, co-parenting duties, and NFL expectations all crashed together.
In March, Nacua made a crucial decision to enter a holistic rehab program. There, he began what he called "open and honest conversations" about the issues he had been avoiding. He described the process as life-changing and a turning point in his recovery.
Rebuilding His Life and Becoming a Better Father
Therapy and recovery have transformed how Nacua thinks about being a dad. He told Netflix that he wants to become someone his son will be proud of. More than that, he hopes to eventually share the lessons he learned from his mistakes with his child.
His commitment to healing extends beyond personal growth. Nacua understands that his choices affect those around him. The journey from addiction to recovery shows a willingness to face hard truths and make lasting change.
Off-Field Troubles Cloud His Return to Football
Despite his personal progress, Nacua faces serious legal and disciplinary challenges. A civil lawsuit alleges he made an antisemitic remark and bit a woman at a party. In a separate incident, he made an antisemitic gesture on a livestream, which he has apologized for.
Archynetys reported that Nacua said he "had no idea" the gesture was antisemitic. His attorney has denied key allegations in the lawsuit. The NFL could still issue discipline. Meanwhile, the Rams must decide whether to extend his contract. Malaysia News Yahoo noted this decision comes as comparable receivers like Jaxon Smith-Njigsa earn over $42 million per year.
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