Puka Nacua faces open criminal case as Los Angeles Rams season begins

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua enters the 2026 season with his status complicated by an unresolved criminal case. Nacua faces a potential misdemeanor battery charge stemming from a New Year's Eve incident involving an alleged bite, though his attorney, Levi McCathern II, has characterized the event as horseplay. While the Los Angeles City Attorney's office stated the matter is currently in pre-filing diversion, the case remains open until the statute of limitations expires on December 31, 2026. Additionally, Nacua has faced controversy regarding allegations of using an antisemitic slur, which he has denied through counsel. Nacua publicly discussed entering a support program in May, and his attorney reports the receiver is currently prepared for the upcoming season. The team continues its pursuit of a Super Bowl title while managing the potential availability issues surrounding the two-time Pro Bowler.

• 10:10 AMYahoo Sports — Why Puka Nacua remains a risk for Super Bowl-bound Rams