Did NFL Kicker Brandon McManus Cross the Line with Sexual Allegations During Team Flight?

NFL kicker Brandon McManus, now with the Washington Commanders, is embroiled in a lawsuit filed by two women who accuse him of sexually assaulting them during a flight to London last year while he was with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The accusations have sent ripples through the NFL community, bringing to light serious questions about player conduct and team oversight.

The lawsuit, filed in Duval County Circuit Civil Court, details disturbing claims from the plaintiffs, identified as Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II.

According to court documents, the women were working as flight attendants on a September 28, 2023, charter flight operated by Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings. The Jaguars were en route to London for two back-to-back games as part of the NFL’s international series.

The women allege that the flight “quickly turned into a party,” with McManus and several other players blatantly ignoring personal boundaries and federal aviation regulations. Specifically, McManus is accused of:

• Jane Doe I alleges that during turbulence, he attempted to kiss her while she was seated and later grinded against her twice as she served meals. Jane Doe II recounts a similar experience during the flight’s second meal service, where McManus allegedly grinded against her and, when confronted, merely smirked and walked away.
• The plaintiffs claim McManus tried to recruit three other flight attendants into the “party” by distributing $100 bills to encourage inappropriate drinking and dancing.

The lawsuit also criticizes the Jaguars for their alleged failure to supervise McManus and ensure a safe environment for their staff. The plaintiffs seek more than $1 million in damages and demand a jury trial, citing severe mental anguish and emotional distress.

But McManus has strongly denied the allegations.

His attorney, Brett R. Gallaway, labeled the claims as “absolutely fictitious and demonstrably false,” arguing that the lawsuit is a calculated attempt to extort and defame the respected NFL player.

Gallaway vowed to “aggressively defend Brandon’s rights and integrity.”

The Commanders, who signed McManus in March 2024, acknowledged the lawsuit and emphasized their commitment to investigating the matter thoroughly.

“We take allegations of this nature very seriously,” a team spokesperson said, noting ongoing communication with both the NFL and McManus’ representation.

The Jaguars, aware of the lawsuit’s gravity, stated their commitment to a thorough review of the incident.

“We insist on an organization built by people who represent our community and game with the highest character and class,” the team said in a statement, highlighting their dedication to upholding moral and professional standards.

The allegations against McManus come at a time when the NFL is under increasing scrutiny regarding player conduct off the field. This lawsuit not only impacts McManus’ career but also raises broader concerns about the responsibilities of NFL teams in safeguarding their staff and maintaining professional standards.