JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Former Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Brandon McManus has been accused of sexually assaulting two women during the team’s flight to London last year, ESPN reported Monday.
The unidentified women, who were working as flight attendants on the Jaguars’ Sept. 28, 2023, Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings charter flight, filed the lawsuit Friday night in Duval County Circuit Civil Court, ESPN reported.
According to the lawsuit, McManus, 32, rubbed himself against them and was grinding on them during what was described as a party-like atmosphere on the flight. The lawsuit also claims that McManus recruited three other flight attendants to the party and passed out $100 bills to encourage them to drink and dance inappropriately for him, according to ESPN.
McManus’ attorney, Brett R. Gallaway, released a statement Monday night to ESPN:
“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.”
The women also accused the Jacksonville Jaguars of failing to supervise McManus and failing to create a safe environment for staff serving the team.
They’re seeking an excess of $1 million and are demanding a jury trial.
Jaguars head coach, Doug Pederson, said this when asked if there was a party type atmosphere on the plane. “A typical flight is not that way, it’s a business trip and that’s how we approach it from an organizational standpoint. When I read that -- that part was disappointing.”
The Jaguars released the following statement:
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.
Jacksonville Jaguars
McManus played one season for the Jaguars after spending nine seasons with the Denver Broncos. He signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract with the Washington Commanders on March 14.
News4JAX is working to get a copy of the lawsuit.