Rams' Puka Nacua: Was 'kind of drowning myself' with alcohol
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua revealed in a Netflix interview that he struggled with alcohol as a way to cope with the pressures of rapid NFL stardom and co-parenting his young son.
- Nacua, who rose from a 2023 fifth-round pick to leading the NFL in receptions, admitted he avoided addressing his stress and fears, instead using alcohol to escape.
- He has faced off-the-field controversies, including apologizing for an antisemitic gesture and being involved in a pending lawsuit alleging antisemitic behavior and assault.
- After checking into rehab in March, Nacua said he has had honest conversations and is now in a better place, looking forward to becoming a role model for his son.
- Despite playing in the recent game against the 49ers, Nacua could still face NFL discipline later this season.
