Attorney For Commanders Kicker Brandon McManus Calls Sexual Assault Allegations 'Extortion Attempt'
On Friday, attorney Tony Buzbee filed a lawsuit on behalf of two women who accuse former Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Brandon McManus of sexual assault during the team's flight to London last season. McManus, who signed with the Washington Commanders this off-season, has retained attorney Brett R. Gallaway for his defense.
Galloway released a statement to multiple media outlets on behalf of McManus, saying that the allegations "are absolutely fictitious and demonstrably false allegations made as part of a campaign to defame and disparage a talented and well-respected NFL player."
He added that his team intends to "aggressively defend Brandon's rights and integrity and clear his name by showing what these claims truly are -- an extortion attempt."
The attorney for Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Brandon McManus (pictured) says the sexual assault allegations against his client are "an extortion attempt."
(Kyle Terada/USA TODAY Sports)
Previously, Buzbee posted on Instagram that he and the two women tried to settle the issue without going to court, but were unable to do so. He compared the case to the Deshaun Watson situation.
"We filed the case on Friday, but before that filing we attempted, without success, to resolve this matter without the need for litigation," Buzbee wrote. "Our efforts at resolution were met with arrogance, ignorance and stupidity, strikingly similar to how Deshaun Watson’s team responded when we tried to resolve those cases pre-filing.
"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. It’s a shame that this type of conduct still occurs. It happens far too often. These women were simply trying to do their jobs!"
The Jacksonville Jaguars also released a statement to ESPN on the matter.
"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."
The NFL has yet to comment on the matter. We will update with more information on the developing situation as we have it.