Rams' Puka Nacua Addresses 'Darkest Times of My Life,' Rehab Stint During NFL Offseason

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua opened up about the circumstances that led to him checking into a rehab facility during the offseason.

Speaking to Netflix's Elle Duncan before kickoff of Thursday's game between the Rams and San Francisco 49ers (h/t ESPN.com), Nacua explained he went through the "darkest times I've had in my life" leading up to his rehab stint.

Nacua's attorney, Levi McCathern, told Edward Lewis of the California Post in April that his client checked into a rehab facility in Malibu.

McCathern didn't get into the specifics of Nacua's decision beyond saying the star receiver was working "to improve his overall behavior in every aspect of his life that he can do it."

"I was able to have open and honest conversations," Nacua told Duncan about his time in rehab. "... I'm looking forward most to becoming a person that I think my son will be proud of ... and as my son gets older, I can share some of the things that I've learned from the mistakes I've made."

Even though Nacua has been one of the most productive receivers in the NFL since entering the league in 2023, the Rams did not sign him to a long-term extension in the offseason despite the two sides having discussed a deal. He is currently playing on the final year of his rookie contract.

Nacua started the 2026 season with five catches for 74 yards in the Rams' 27-7 loss to the 49ers. He averaged 104 receptions, 1,397 yards and six touchdowns per season from 2023 to '25.