Commanders release kicker McManus after claims of sexual assault on flight

The two women were working as flight attendants on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ flight to London last September. They allege in a civil lawsuit that McManus tried to kiss one of them and rubbed up against both of them while they were trying to carry out their work duties. They are seeking in excess of $1m in damages, according to court documents. McManus was playing for the Jaguars at the time and the team were on their way to London for a pair of regular-season games.

McManus’s lawyer, Brett R Gallaway, denied the allegations against his client in a statement released on Sunday night.

“We reiterate that the allegations against Brandon are and remain absolutely false and importantly, are contradicted by indisputable evidence and the accusers’ own prior inconsistent statements and omissions,” Gallaway said. “While we are disappointed with the team’s decision to release Brandon before he had the opportunity to defend against these fabricated claims, we will aggressively defend and clear Brandon’s name and reputation through the legal process. We intend to defeat these claims, fully exonerate him and look forward to seeing him back on the field where he belongs.”

McManus, 32, signed with Washington in March after playing last season, his 10th in the NFL, with Jacksonville. The Commanders and Jaguars earlier in the week each said they were looking into the situation.