The Los Angeles Rams might be without their top pass-catcher when they open the 2026 season in Australia. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the NFL is weighing disciplinary action against Puka Nacua that could sideline him for the Week 1 showdown with the San Francisco 49ers.
Schefter revealed on his latest podcast that a suspension is "within the realm of options" for the Rams' star wideout. The potential punishment stems from a March lawsuit filed by a woman who accused Nacua of biting her shoulder and making an antisemitic comment on New Year's Eve. The suit also claims he bit her friend's thumb, leaving teeth marks on both individuals.
This isn't the first off-field issue for Nacua this offseason. In December, he made a gesture during a livestream that was widely condemned as perpetuating harmful stereotypes against Jewish people. He later apologized, and both the NFL and the Rams publicly denounced his actions. The league's investigation into that incident, combined with the new legal allegations, has put his Week 1 availability in serious jeopardy.
Nacua's Response and Focus on Football
Speaking to reporters two weeks ago, Nacua didn't provide specifics on the legal situation but acknowledged the need for personal growth. "There's definitely trying to take accountability for the things that I know that I can continue to change and can grow in ways that I know that have helped me feel as best as I can when I step out here on the football field and outside of the football field," he said.
The fifth-round pick out of BYU has become one of the NFL's most productive receivers, leading the league with 129 receptions for 1,715 yards in 2025, second only to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He emphasized that football remains his sanctuary amid the chaos. "I think the game of football is a safe place for me, and I enjoy that," Nacua said. "There have been things outside of my control that I think have impacted the way I've been able to kind of focus and enjoy this game of football. But coming out here and seeing that jersey No. 12 hung up in my locker is something that I don't take for granted."
The Rams, who are coming off a strong season, would face a significant challenge if Nacua is forced to sit out the opener. His absence would leave quarterback Matthew Stafford without his most reliable target against a tough 49ers defense. The team has not commented publicly on the potential suspension, but the league's decision could come before the season begins.
This situation adds to a growing list of NFL players facing discipline for off-field conduct. Just recently, Eagles' Nolan Smith owned up to his offseason arrest, and the Cowboys' Charles Snowden was handed a three-game suspension. The NFL has shown a willingness to enforce its personal conduct policy strictly, and Nacua's case could set a precedent for how it handles allegations involving star players.
For now, Rams fans are left waiting to see if their star receiver will be in the lineup when the team travels to Melbourne for the historic international game. The NFL's decision will have major implications for both Nacua's season and the Rams' championship aspirations.
