GossiperIn a shocking turn of events, NFL kicker Brandon McManus and the Jacksonville Jaguars are facing a bombshell lawsuit filed by two women alleging sexual assault on a team flight to London last year. The suit, filed in Duval County Circuit Civil Court, accuses McManus of inappropriate and unwanted physical contact, as well as the Jaguars of negligence.
Accusations Take Flight
Identified in court documents as Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II, the two women, who were working as flight attendants, claim McManus rubbed and grinded against them during the flight. The lawsuit details a chaotic scene where McManus and other players turned the flight into a raucous party, disregarding personal space and safety regulations. According to the lawsuit, McManus handed out $100 bills to other attendants to encourage inappropriate behavior.
Seeking Justice
The plaintiffs are demanding over $1 million in damages and a jury trial, highlighting severe emotional and psychological distress caused by the incident. They accuse the Jaguars of failing to supervise McManus and neglecting to provide a safe environment for their staff. This incident reportedly led to their removal from the core crew for Jaguars charter flights, a role they had aspired to achieve.
The Fallout
A statement from McManus or his attorney is expected soon, but the Jaguars have remained tight-lipped, declining to comment. ESPN has also reached out to McManus’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, for a response. Interestingly, McManus signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract with the Washington Commanders in March, after not being re-signed by the Jaguars.
Commanders Respond
In a statement, the Washington Commanders acknowledged the lawsuit, emphasizing their commitment to taking such allegations seriously. They are currently communicating with the League Office and McManus’ representatives, but have reserved further comment.
Detailed Allegations
The lawsuit paints a disturbing picture of the Sept. 28, 2023, charter flight. Jane Doe I alleges McManus attempted to kiss her during turbulence and twice grinded against her while she served meals. Jane Doe II claims McManus grinded against her during the flight’s second meal service and smirked when she confronted him. To avoid further encounters, she stayed on the aircraft’s second story during the return flight from London to Jacksonville.
Negligence Claims
The lawsuit accuses the Jaguars of gross negligence, stating they failed in their duty to hire, train, and supervise McManus properly. It also criticizes the team for not implementing adequate policies to protect staff from sexual misconduct and not enforcing a zero-tolerance policy regarding inappropriate behavior.
McManus’ Track Record
Despite these allegations, McManus had a successful season with the Jaguars, hitting 30 of 37 field goal attempts and all 35 extra points. He initially signed with the team on May 5, 2023, after being released by the Denver Broncos.
This explosive case is a stark reminder of the need for stringent supervision and robust protective measures in all workplaces, including the high-flying world of professional sports. Stay tuned as more details emerge in this developing story.
