New details in the Brandon McManus sexual assault lawsuit became public late Monday.
On Sunday night, the attorney for the NFL kicker called allegations that McManus sexually assaulted two flight attendants on a Jacksonville Jaguars charter flight to the United Kingdom “an extortion attempt.”
Brandon McManus Lawsuit Details
McManus, who signed with the Washington Commanders this offseason after spending 2023 with Jacksonville, is accused of making unwanted sexual advances against two women, including grinding against them without their consent, during a September 2023 team flight to London.
The accusers — named Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II in the complaint — also sued the Jaguars for allegedly failing to supervise McManus and creating a safe environment. Per ESPN, the women are seeking more than $1 million in damages.
“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,” McManus’ attorney, Brett Gallaway, said in a statement. “We intend to aggressively defend Brandon’s rights and integrity and clear his name by showing what these claims truly are — an extortion attempt.”
“We’re aware of the complaint, and we acknowledge the significance of the claims,” the Jaguars said in a statement Monday. “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.”
NFL Offseason Drama Continues
The lawsuit, first reported by ESPN, includes some troubling details. McManus is accused of turning the Jaguars’ Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings charter into a mile-high keg party and making members of the charter’s staff his unwilling dance partners.
McManus, per ESPN, handed out $100 bills to encourage them “to drink and dance inappropriately for them.”
One of the two accusers alleges McManus tried to kiss her. Both say he grinded up against them.
These allegations are the latest in a string of alarming headlines for the NFL this offseason. Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice faces charges and a possible suspension for allegedly causing a high-speed crash on a Texas highway.
Teammate Harrison Butker has become a lightning rod for divisive comments made during a commencement address.
McManus’ Contract Details
Accusations that a player engaged in sexual misconduct would be a significant concern for any team, but the Commanders are in a particularly uneasy spot, considering their recent history.
The franchise’s new ownership has been attempting to disinfect its toxic reputation. Still, McManus’ alleged misdeeds sound a lot like the type of thing that would have been permitted under previous owner Dan Snyder.
McManus joined the Commanders on a one-year, $3.6 million contract this offseason, but only $1.5 million of it is guaranteed — which would be the team’s cap hit should Washington decide to move on.
“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,” the Commanders said in a statement Monday. “We have been in communication with the League Office and Brandon’s representation, and will reserve further comment at this time.”