Two flight attendants have filed a lawsuit accusing kicker Brandon McManus of sexually assaulting them on a Jacksonville Jaguars flight last year.
The lawsuit describes a “party” atmosphere on the flight that may have led to violations beyond the disturbing allegations.
Both women allege that McManus ground and rubbed against them during a team flight to London. According to the lawsuit, the flight attendants also detected the presence of marijuana on the plane.
“Throughout the course of the flight, Plaintiffs smelled marijuana smoke coming from the plane’s restrooms,” the complaint states.
While marijuana is legal in 24 U.S. states, including Florida, the NFL still lists it as a banned substance. Players are tested for THC before the start of the season.
U.S. federal law prohibits marijuana possession on airplanes, and recreational cannabis remains illegal in the United Kingdom.
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The lawsuit also claims that McManus was drinking with other crew members who no longer work for the airline.
Although the legal complaint doesn’t specify, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported that witnesses will testify that Jaguars players brought alcohol on the plane.
Alcohol is prohibited on NFL team flights. In 2022, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a memo reminding teams that violations “will be taken seriously and will result in significant discipline.”
The lawsuit accuses the Jaguars of “gross negligence” for failing to ensure a safe working environment for the airline crew.
The plaintiffs are seeking over $1 million in damages and have demanded a trial by jury.
Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson stated that he was unaware of the “disappointing” allegations against McManus until the lawsuit was filed. He emphasized that the typical flight is regarded as a “business trip.”
