On Monday, May 27, the NFL community was shaken by the announcement that Washington Commanders’ kicker Brandon McManus is facing a lawsuit for sexual assault.
The legal action also involves the Jacksonville Jaguars, relating to events that allegedly occurred during the team’s trip to the United Kingdom for matches against the Atlanta Falcons on October 1 and the Buffalo Bills on October 8, 2023.
Two women have accused McManus of assaulting them during an Atlas Air Worldwide flight that was carrying Jaguars’ players. The complaint details that McManus tried to turn the flight into a party, offering attendants $100 to drink and dance, which allegedly included inappropriate behavior such as grinding against the plaintiffs.
However, McManus’s attorney, Brett R. Galloway, has strongly denied these accusations, telling ESPN’s Adam Schefter, “These are absolutely fictitious and demonstrably false allegations made as part of a campaign to defame and disparage a talented and well-respected NFL player.”
Buzbee, the accusers lawyers responded via Instagram:
The lawsuit also claims that the Jacksonville Jaguars did not properly monitor the situation, contributing to the alleged misconduct. The plaintiffs are seeking damages of one million dollars, though it is not specified whether this amount is per victim or collectively from McManus and the Jaguars.
Following his release from the Jaguars, McManus signed a $3.6 million deal with the Commanders, who have since launched an investigation into the allegations. The Commanders stated, “Earlier today, we were made aware of the civil lawsuit filed on May 24 against Brandon McManus. We take allegations of this nature very seriously and are looking into the matter. We have been in communication with the League Office and Brandon’s representation, and will reserve further comment at this time.”
