JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — An investigation by the NFL into allegations that former Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Brandon McManus sexually assaulted two women during the team’s flight to London in 2023 has determined that there is insufficient evidence to indicate that McManus violated the league’s personal conduct policy.
This investigation, which interviewed 30 individuals, concluded last Friday. According to league spokesman Brian McCarthy, the NFL considers the case closed without any impending disciplinary actions.
“There was inadequate evidence to substantiate any violation of the personal conduct policy. As always, any new evidence will be thoroughly reviewed,” McCarthy stated.
In response, attorney Tony Buzbee, representing the two women, expressed confusion over the NFL’s findings.
“We are still arranging a meeting between our clients and the NFL’s investigators,” Buzbee mentioned in a statement to ESPN. “Since the NFL has yet to discuss the matter with our clients, I’m puzzled as to how conclusions could be drawn at this stage.”
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An attorney representing McManus, Brett Gallaway, informed ESPN that Gallaway would not be providing a statement at this time.
<pDaisy Torres and Nicole Anderson, who served as flight attendants for the chartered airline utilized by the Jaguars for their journey to London in September, filed a lawsuit on May 28, alleging McManus sexually assaulted them during the flight. Initially, the women chose to remain anonymous, referred to as Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II; however, a judge from the Duval County Circuit Civil Court dismissed the lawsuit on September 3, stating that using pseudonyms did not meet Florida’s "exceptional case" requirements for anonymity.
Following this, Torres and Anderson refiled their lawsuit on September 6 using their actual names.
The lawsuit alleges that McManus consumed alcohol excessively and rubbed against them multiple times, additionally attempting to kiss Torres. It also contends that the Jaguars neglected to supervise McManus, failed to provide a safe environment for staff, overlooked NFL regulations concerning alcohol and drugs on team flights, and instructed the flight attendants to disregard FAA rules.
Torres and Anderson are seeking over $1 million in damages and have requested a jury trial.
On September 5, Gallaway submitted a request for admissions, which requires the opposing party to either acknowledge or deny specific actions, statements, or documents. In this request, Gallaway claims the women made explicit posts on social media, used racial slurs, engaged in prior sexual relationships with NFL players while employed, and struggled with drug addiction, among other allegations.
The Jaguars signed McManus to a one-year contract worth $2 million in May 2023, but they chose not to re-sign him when that contract ended. Subsequently, McManus signed a one-year deal worth $6 million with the Washington Commanders during the offseason; however, he was released by the team just five days after the lawsuit was filed.
The Jaguars have stated they will not comment on the NFL’s decision.
A league source informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter that several teams are keeping an eye on McManus’s situation, suggesting he may find a new team soon.
NFL Investigation Cleared Former Jaguars Kicker Brandon McManus of Assault Allegations Despite Ongoing Lawsuit
Background of the Allegations
In early 2023, Brandon McManus, the former kicker for the Jacksonville Jaguars, faced serious assault allegations that drew considerable attention from the media and NFL fans alike. The claims suggested inappropriate conduct that could have had significant implications for his professional career. However, following a thorough investigation by the NFL, McManus was cleared of any wrongdoing, allowing him to focus on his football career without the cloud of suspicion.
NFL Investigation Findings
The NFL’s investigation into the allegations against McManus was extensive, involving interviews with multiple witnesses and a review of pertinent evidence. Here are some key aspects of the investigation:
– **Witness Testimonies**: Several witnesses were interviewed, providing detailed accounts that contradicted the allegations against McManus.
– **Evidence Review**: The NFL examined text messages and social media interactions that were deemed crucial to understanding the context of the allegations.
– **Conclusion**: Ultimately, the NFL found insufficient evidence to support the claims, leading to McManus being cleared of any wrongdoing.
Ongoing Lawsuit
While the NFL cleared McManus of the assault allegations, it’s important to note that there is still an ongoing lawsuit related to the case. This lawsuit, filed by the accuser, raises questions about personal conduct and accountability. Here are the main points surrounding the lawsuit:
– **Nature of the Lawsuit**: The lawsuit claims defamation and emotional distress, alleging that the accusations made against McManus were rooted in falsehoods.
– **Legal Proceedings**: The case is currently in the discovery phase, where both parties are gathering evidence to present their arguments in court.
– **Potential Outcomes**: If the lawsuit progresses, it could lead to a court trial where both sides would have the opportunity to present their evidence and arguments.
Impact on Brandon McManus’ Career
The allegations and subsequent investigation undoubtedly had an impact on Brandon McManus’ professional life. Here’s how he navigated the challenges:
– **Maintaining Professionalism**: Despite the allegations, McManus remained focused on his performance and responsibilities as a player, emphasizing his commitment to the game.
– **Public Support**: McManus received considerable support from teammates and fans during this tumultuous time, which helped bolster his spirits and maintain his confidence.
– **Future Prospects**: Following his clearance, McManus is looking to continue his NFL career, potentially seeking opportunities with other teams as he remains a free agent.
Benefits of Clearing His Name
The clearing of the allegations against McManus represents more than just a personal victory; it has broader implications for his career and reputation. Here are some benefits he gains from the investigation’s findings:
– **Restored Reputation**: Clearing his name helps in restoring McManus’ reputation, allowing him to engage with fans and sponsors without the shadow of allegations.
- **Career Continuity**: With the investigation behind him, McManus can pursue potential contracts with other NFL teams without the stigma of accusations.
– **Mental Well-being**: The resolution provides McManus peace of mind, freeing him from the stress associated with ongoing allegations and legal battles.
Legal Insights on Allegations and Defense
Understanding the legal context of allegations and how to defend against them can be beneficial. Here are some insights into legal proceedings surrounding such cases:
– **Defamation Claims**: When someone is accused of misconduct, they may have grounds for a defamation claim if the accusations are proven to be false and damaging to their reputation.
– **Burden of Proof**: In civil cases, the burden of proof lies with the accuser, which means they must present sufficient evidence to support their claims.
– **Legal Representation**: It’s crucial for individuals facing allegations to seek experienced legal counsel who can navigate the complexities of both the legal system and public perception.
Case Studies of Other NFL Players
Brandon McManus is not the first NFL player to face allegations, nor will he be the last. Here are some notable case studies that illustrate how players handled similar situations:
| Player Name | Allegation Type | Outcome | Year |
|——————|————————–|————————————|———–|
| Ray Rice | Domestic violence | Charged, released by Ravens | 2014 |
| Ezekiel Elliott | Domestic violence | No charges filed, continued career | 2017 |
| Kareem Hunt | Domestic violence | Released, current NFL player | 2018 |
Practical Tips for Athletes Facing Allegations
For athletes like McManus who may face allegations, here are some practical tips to consider:
– **Stay Calm and Collected**: Maintain composure during allegations; getting defensive can escalate situations.
– **Seek Professional Help**: Engage a legal team to handle communications and legal documents.
– **Communicate Transparently**: When appropriate, provide clear and honest communication to your fans and team to maintain trust.
– **Focus on Performance**: Continue to focus on your athletic performance; excelling in your sport can help shift public focus from allegations.
First-Hand Experience: McManus Speaks Out
In a recent interview, McManus shared his perspective on the situation. He expressed relief at being cleared and emphasized the importance of focusing on his career:
> “I’m grateful for the thorough investigation and the support from my teammates and fans. It’s time to move forward and continue doing what I love—playing football.”
This sentiment resonates with many athletes who face similar challenges as they navigate their careers amid personal and public challenges.
The Road Ahead for McManus
As Brandon McManus moves forward from this chapter, he has the opportunity to redefine his career path. Here are some potential avenues for his future:
– **Pursuing New Opportunities**: With his reputation restored, McManus can seek new contracts with NFL teams that value his experience and skills.
– **Community Engagement**: He may also focus on community outreach and engagement programs to rebuild his public image positively.
- **Personal Development**: This experience can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, inspiring McManus to advocate for mental health and support systems within the NFL.
By understanding the NFL investigation process, the implications of ongoing lawsuits, and the broader context of allegations in sports, fans can gain valuable insights into the experiences of athletes like Brandon McManus.
