Puka Nacua experienced what Sean McVay often calls “learning opps” earlier this year after some off-the-field troubles, most notably on New Year’s Eve when he was accused of biting a woman’s shoulder and making antisemitic remarks.
He’s still facing a lawsuit for that incident but he wasn’t placed on the commissioner’s exempt list, which means he’s still allowed to practice and play. He’s going to play against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night and Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Monday that “there’s a real possibility” Nacua avoids a suspension this season.
That being said, Nacua realizes his actions have consequences and has a “realistic understanding” that he could still be suspended.
“Definitely feeling the emotion of some of the things
that – just trying to handle that in the ways that I can and what’s in my control. But also, yeah, having a realistic understanding of the consequences of some of the things that I put myself in this offseason,” Nacua said on Monday. “But I feel like I’ve been able to feel grounded and feel present when I step out there on the football field.”
Nacua missed some practice time recently with a psoas injury, but he was back on the field Sunday and is ready to go for Thursday’s season opener against the 49ers. A suspension could come later but for now, the superstar receiver is available for the Rams.
Nacua led the NFL in receiving yards per game and receptions last season, so he’s looking to pick up where he left off in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Puka Nacua has 'realistic understanding' that he could be suspended
