Rams WR Puka Nacua Facing Potential Suspension for Week 1 vs. 49ers

As the Los Angeles Rams wrap up training camp and get ready for the regular season, they could be without their star wide receiver when they play the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. On his podcast on Tuesday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter said that Nacua’s case is one of several that are under review and being investigated by the NFL.

“Right now, there are some things going on behind closed doors that we don’t have full access to that are going to have a significant impact on the season,” said Schefter. “Cases I believe are now being reviewed include that of the Rams’ wide receiver Puka Nacua…it’s possible when the Niners and Rams play in Australia, it’s within the realm of options that Puka doesn’t play in that game.”

Potential discipline looms over a group of NFL players, including Rams WR Puka Nacua and Packers RB Josh Jacobs.

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— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 11, 2026

Following the Rams’ loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game, Nacua was seen out on New Year’s Eve and made headlines. Nacua allegedly bit a woman on the shoulder, leaving a mark. The victim has filed a civil lawsuit against Nacua. While no court date is currently set, Nacua's attorneys recently requested to push back a key witness deposition after September 7.

Could Puka Nacua Miss Week 1 vs. 49ers?

Nacua spent time in rehab this summer as he worked to grow as a person. He has been on his best behavior throughout training camp and didn’t hold out despite being in the final year of his rookie contract.

It’s unclear how long Nacua’s suspension would be and if one occurs before the regular season. The NFL still needs to go through its own independent investigation. The league also tends to let the legal process play out before making a decision. If Nacua is suspended for Week 1, it would be a significant loss against a division rival.

Alaric Jackson Also Facing Potential NFL Discipline

Schefter also noted that Alaric Jackson’s case from the offseason is under review. Jackson was arrested on felony domestic battery. However, the charges were dropped. While the charges were dropped, that doesn’t mean that the NFL can’t still hand out a suspension. This would be Jackson’s second offense against the personal conduct policy.

The cases remain under review and are still being investigated, according to Schefter. However, discipline is still a potential option. “By the time the regular season opens, we’ll have more clarity as it pertains to Puka Nacua and Alaric Jackson,” said Schefter.

Rams Could Face Early-Season Challenge Without Key Players

This is certainly going to be something to monitor over the next few weeks. The league typically announces its disciplinary actions after law enforcement and independent league investigations conclude.

The Rams are heading into a season with Super Bowl expectations. Suspensions and injuries are among the few things that could derail those expectations. These situations were completely avoidable, and the Rams may now have to face the consequences. The Rams have a difficult schedule to open the season with their first four games against the 49ers, New York Giants, Denver Broncos, and Philadelphia Eagles. They will certainly want to be at full strength for those games and get off to a strong start.

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