Brandon McManus’ legal team has vehemently denied the accusations of sexual assault made against the NFL star during his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Allegations and Lawsuit
Two women have filed a lawsuit against the Jaguars and their former kicker, Brandon McManus, alleging that he sexually assaulted them on a team flight to London last year.
The women, who remain unidentified, are seeking over $1 million and are demanding a jury trial.
They claim that McManus, 32, rubbed himself against them and that the Jacksonville Jaguars failed to supervise their player or provide a safe environment for their staff.
McManus’ Legal Team Responds
In a strong statement released on Monday, McManus’ lawyers labeled the allegations as “fictitious” and “false,” claiming that the accusations are an attempt to extort their client.
Brett R. Gallaway, Partner at McLaughlin & Stern, stated, “To be clear, 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.
We intend to aggressively defend Brandon’s rights and integrity and clear his name by showing what these claims truly are – an extortion attempt.”
Timeline and Context
The Jaguars played two games in London during the 2023 season: against the Atlanta Falcons at Wembley on October 1, and against the Buffalo Bills at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 8.
McManus participated in both games. Following the season, he was not re-signed by the Jaguars and has since secured a one-year, $3.6 million contract with the Washington Commanders.
Washington Commanders’ Statement
In response to the lawsuit, a spokesperson for the Washington Commanders said, “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.”
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Response
Initially declining to comment, the Jaguars later issued a statement acknowledging the complaint and the seriousness of the claims.
“We’re aware of the complaint, and we acknowledge the significance of the claims. As we continue to look into the matter, it bears emphasizing that we insist on an organization built by people who represent our community and game with the highest character and class.”
Details of the Allegations
According to the lawsuit, the Jaguars flew to the UK on a charter flight on September 28, 2023, with the two women working as flight attendants.
They allege that the flight “quickly turned into a party” and that McManus and other players “disregarded the flight attendants’ personal space, air travel safety, and federal law.”
Specific Incidents Described
Jane Doe I claims that McManus attempted to kiss her during turbulence and twice grinded against her while she was serving meals.
Jane Doe II alleges that McManus grinded against her while serving the second meal and confronted him, only for him to “smirk and walk away.”
Doe I also mentioned making eye contact with another Jaguars player who appeared ashamed of McManus’ behavior.
After the team returned to the USA, Doe II avoided McManus by staying on the second story of the aircraft.
Psychological Impact
The lawsuit states that both women have suffered severe mental anguish, anxiety, psychological and emotional distress, embarrassment, and humiliation as a result of the alleged incidents.
McManus’ NFL Performance
Last season, McManus earned $2 million with the Jacksonville Jaguars following his release from the Denver Broncos.
He successfully made 30 of his 37 field-goal attempts and all 35 of his extra-point attempts during the 2023 season.
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