Photo Credit: Richard Paul Kane/Shutterstock
Two women have filed a lawsuit against NFL kicker Brandon McManus and the Jacksonville Jaguars, alleging sexual assault during the team’s overseas flight to London last year.
The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II in the lawsuit filed in Duval County Circuit Civil Court, accuse McManus of inappropriate physical conduct. They also claim that the Jaguars failed to supervise McManus and neglected to ensure a safe working environment for the staff serving the team.
The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $1 million and demands a jury trial. “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 R. Gallaway, stated. “We intend to aggressively defend Brandon’s rights and integrity and clear his name by showing what these claims truly are—an extortion attempt.”
Attorney Tony Buzbee, representing the two women, indicated that an attempt to settle the case was made before the lawsuit was filed. “Our efforts at resolution were met with arrogance, ignorance, and stupidity,” Buzbee wrote on Instagram. “The allegations made in this lawsuit are very serious. We made sure to fully vet them and speak to witnesses before even taking the cases. We will pursue this case with the same tenacity we are known for.”
The Jaguars acknowledged the lawsuit in a statement: “We’re aware of the complaint and 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.”
The Jaguars did not re-sign McManus this offseason. Instead, he signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract with the Washington Commanders on March 14. “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. “We have been in communication with the League Office and Brandon’s representation, and will reserve further comment at this time.”
According to the lawsuit, the two women were flight attendants on the Jaguars’ September 28, 2023, Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings charter flight. They allege that the flight “quickly turned into a party” with McManus and other players disregarding personal space, air travel safety, and federal law. The lawsuit claims McManus recruited three other flight attendants to the party, handing out $100 bills to encourage them to drink and dance inappropriately.
Jane Doe I accuses McManus of attempting to kiss her and grinding against her while she was serving meals. She alleges that during one incident, another Jaguars player witnessed McManus’ behavior and appeared ashamed. Jane Doe II alleges that McManus ground against her while she was serving meals and smirked when confronted.
The lawsuit states that this was the first Jaguars charter flight the women worked, and the experience has caused them severe mental anguish and emotional distress. They have since been removed from the core crew that staffs Jaguars charter flights, which they had worked hard to join.
The plaintiffs accuse the Jaguars of gross negligence in hiring McManus, failing to train him on appropriate conduct, and not implementing policies to protect flight staff from sexual misconduct. Jaguars coach Doug Pederson commented on the situation, expressing disappointment and noting that the flight was meant to be a business trip, not a party. He added that the seating arrangement on the flight is somewhat separated.
McManus joined the Jaguars on May 5, 2023, after being released by the Denver Broncos. He signed a one-year contract worth $2 million and successfully made 30 of 37 field goal attempts and all 35 extra point attempts last season.
