Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua addressed the possibility of an NFL suspension stemming from his offseason conduct as the team prepares to travel to Melbourne, Australia, for their season opener. Nacua stated that while he is focused on what he can control, he has a realistic understanding of the consequences associated with his actions.
There has been no indication from the league that a suspension is imminent for Nacua or offensive lineman Alaric Jackson. Rams head coach Sean McVay has not received any information suggesting either player will be suspended before the Thursday game against the San Francisco 49ers. Nacua has also not been placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, a measure used by the NFL to remove players from active duty while investigations into potential violations of the league's personal conduct policy are underway.
Unlike some players who have been placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, Nacua has not faced formal criminal charges. The Los Angeles City Attorney's office reviewed potential misdemeanor battery claims but opted to route the case into a pre-filing diversion program rather than filing charges.
Nacua is currently in the fourth and final year of his rookie contract. He is involved in a civil lawsuit filed by a woman alleging assault and battery. The lawsuit claims Nacua made an antisemitic remark and bit her shoulder during an incident on New Year's Eve. Nacua has strongly denied making any antisemitic remarks. His attorney, Levi McCathern II, previously stated in March that Nacua denies these allegations in the strongest possible terms and described the bite mark as consensual "horseplay." McCathern also noted that shortly after the alleged incident, Nacua entered a rehabilitation facility to improve his overall behavior.
Nacua expressed a desire to remain present and grounded, appreciating the opportunity to play football. He recently returned to full practice after a psoas injury sustained during an August joint practice with the Dallas Cowboys. "It feels great being out there on the field, just being able to move around," Nacua said. "Being around the guys, I think, has got some of that energy and blood flowing in the body."
The Rams will travel to Australia for their season opener, a trip Nacua is looking forward to. He mentioned having extended family in Australia and expressed excitement about connecting with the local Polynesian community.
"I'm looking forward to it," Nacua said. "I have some extended family who live out there in Australia, and I look forward to being embraced by our fans out there and also the Polynesian culture that's out there."
Nacua stated his plan for the long flight is simple: "They told me not to nap. I probably won't peek an eye."