Brandon McManus Lawsuit: Settled, Cleared by NFL & Now with $15.3M Packers Deal
Brandon McManus’s sexual assault lawsuit was settled with confidential terms on October 16, 2024. The NFL cleared him of any discipline on September 30, 2024, finding insufficient evidence. Two flight attendants sued McManus and the Jacksonville Jaguars on May 28, 2024, alleging he sexually assaulted them during a September 28, 2023 charter flight to London. Hours after the settlement, Green Bay signed McManus, and he later received a three-year, $15.3 million contract extension on March 4, 2025. As of December 2025, McManus is the Packers’ starting kicker, going 19-for-25 on field goals this season while battling quadriceps injuries.
What Was the Brandon McManus Lawsuit About?
On May 28, 2024, two women—Daisy Torres and Nicole Anderson—filed a civil lawsuit in Duval County Circuit Civil Court in Florida (Case No. 16-2024-CA-003654) against NFL kicker Brandon McManus and the Jacksonville Jaguars, seeking more than $1 million in damages.
The Core Allegations
The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II in court documents, alleged McManus sexually assaulted them during the Jaguars’ September 28, 2023 charter flight from Jacksonville to London for the team’s Week 5 game against the Atlanta Falcons at Wembley Stadium.
Specific Allegations Against McManus:
- Attempted to kiss Jane Doe I while she was serving the flight
- Rubbed himself against Jane Doe I while she was seated during a period of turbulence
- Grinded against Jane Doe II while she was serving meals
- Recruited other Jaguars players to distribute $100 bills to flight attendants willing to sit on their laps during the flight
The lawsuit claimed McManus and other players created a hostile work environment and disregarded the flight attendants’ personal space, autonomy, and safety.
Allegations Against the Jacksonville Jaguars
The lawsuit also named the Jaguars organization, alleging the team:
- Failed to properly supervise McManus and other players
- Did not create a safe work environment for the flight crew
- Failed to implement adequate policies to protect employees from sexual harassment
- Ignored flight crew concerns about player behavior on charter flights
The plaintiffs sought compensatory and punitive damages exceeding $1 million, along with attorney fees and costs.
Settlement Details: Case Resolved October 16, 2024
Settlement Announcement
On October 16, 2024, attorneys for both parties announced the lawsuit had been “resolved” through a confidential settlement.
“This matter has been resolved,” Brett Gallaway, McManus’s attorney, confirmed in a statement. “There will be no further comment out of respect for the parties involved.”
Tony Buzbee, the Houston-based attorney representing the two flight attendants, issued a similar statement: “This case is now settled, and the parties agreed to keep the terms confidential.”
Settlement Terms
No financial details or specific settlement terms were disclosed. The confidential nature of the settlement is standard in civil cases involving sexual assault allegations.
Neither McManus nor the Jacksonville Jaguars admitted wrongdoing as part of the settlement.
NFL Investigation: McManus Cleared September 30, 2024
NFL’s Findings
On September 30, 2024—16 days before the settlement—the NFL announced it would not discipline McManus after concluding its investigation into the allegations.
The league found insufficient evidence that McManus violated its personal conduct policy, according to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
The NFL’s investigation included interviews with potential witnesses, review of available evidence, and examination of the circumstances surrounding the September 2023 flight.
Personal Conduct Policy Standards
Under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy, the league can discipline players for conduct that is “detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in the National Football League,” even if no criminal charges are filed.
The policy allows for suspensions, fines, and other disciplinary actions based on the league’s independent investigation, regardless of whether civil lawsuits are resolved.
Timeline of the Case
September 28, 2023: Alleged incidents occurred on Jaguars charter flight to London
May 28, 2024: Two flight attendants filed lawsuit in Florida state court
May 31, 2024: Washington Commanders signed McManus as a free agent
June 2, 2024: Lawsuit became public knowledge
June 3, 2024: Washington Commanders released McManus
June-September 2024: McManus remained unsigned while NFL investigation continued
September 30, 2024: NFL cleared McManus of discipline, finding insufficient evidence
October 16, 2024: Lawsuit settled with confidential terms
October 16, 2024: Green Bay Packers signed McManus hours after settlement announcement
March 4, 2025: Packers signed McManus to three-year, $15.3 million extension
December 2025: McManus continues as Packers starting kicker
Who Were the Plaintiffs?
The Two Flight Attendants
The plaintiffs filed under pseudonyms Jane Doe I and Jane Doe II to protect their identities but later identified themselves publicly as:
Daisy Torres: One of the two Atlas Air flight attendants working the September 28, 2023 charter flight
Nicole Anderson: The second Atlas Air flight attendant who alleged sexual assault
Both women were Atlas Air employees assigned to work Jaguars charter flights during the 2023 season.
Legal Representation
The plaintiffs were represented by Tony Buzbee of The Buzbee Law Firm in Houston, Texas. Buzbee is known for handling high-profile cases involving professional athletes and sexual misconduct allegations.
Brandon McManus’s Defense and Response
Initial Denial
McManus’s attorney Brett Gallaway issued a strong denial when the lawsuit was filed in May 2024:
“These are absolutely fictitious and demonstrably false allegations made as part of a campaign to defame and disparage a talented and well-respected NFL player. We intend to vigorously defend Brandon’s rights and integrity.”
Defense Strategy
McManus’s legal team argued:
- The allegations were unsubstantiated and lacked credible evidence
- No criminal charges were filed despite the serious nature of the claims
- Multiple witnesses on the flight did not corroborate the allegations
- The timing of the lawsuit (filed 8 months after the alleged incidents) raised questions about credibility
No Admission of Wrongdoing
The October 2024 settlement included no admission of liability or wrongdoing by McManus. Settlements in civil cases are not admissions of guilt and often occur to avoid prolonged litigation costs and negative publicity.
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Response
Team Statement
When the lawsuit was filed, the Jaguars issued a statement acknowledging awareness of the allegations:
“We’re aware of the lawsuit. As we continue to look into the matter, we decline further comment.”
Organizational Changes
The Jaguars did not publicly announce specific policy changes following the lawsuit, but the team faced scrutiny over its handling of player conduct on charter flights and oversight of interactions between players and flight crew members.
The team was named as a defendant due to allegations it failed to:
- Supervise player behavior adequately
- Train players on appropriate conduct with flight crew
- Respond appropriately to previous complaints about player behavior
- Implement policies to prevent sexual harassment
Impact on McManus’s NFL Career
Release by Washington Commanders
Washington signed McManus on May 31, 2024, but released him on June 3, 2024—just two days after the lawsuit became public. The Commanders did not provide a specific reason but the timing made the connection clear.
Unsigned for Months
McManus remained unemployed from June through September 2024 as the NFL investigation continued and the lawsuit proceeded.
Signed by Green Bay Packers
Hours after announcing the settlement on October 16, 2024, the Green Bay Packers signed McManus to address their kicking struggles.
McManus made a game-winning 45-yard field goal in his Packers debut on October 20, 2024, beating the Houston Texans 24-22.
Long-Term Contract Extension
On March 4, 2025, the Packers signed McManus to a three-year, $15.3 million contract extension with a $5 million signing bonus, making him one of the NFL’s higher-paid kickers.
The $5.1 million annual average salary ties for 10th among NFL kickers, demonstrating the Packers’ confidence in McManus despite the 2024 lawsuit.
McManus’s 2025 Season Performance
Current Status (December 2025)
As of December 21, 2025, McManus is the Packers’ starting kicker, though he has dealt with recurring quadriceps injuries throughout the season.
2025 Season Statistics
Through Week 15 (December 15, 2025):
- Field goals: 19-for-25 (76%)
- Extra points: 24-for-25 (96%)
- Longest field goal: 55 yards (game-winner vs. Chicago Bears)
- Missed six field goals earlier in the season
- Made 8 consecutive field goals since returning from Week 11 quad injury
Injury Concerns
McManus has battled right quadriceps injuries throughout the 2025 season:
- Missed Weeks 6 and 7 with initial quad injury
- Listed as doubtful for Week 11 game vs. Giants
- Backup Lucas Havrisik has kicked in McManus’s absences
Packers Special Teams Coordinator Rich Bisaccia stated on December 4, 2025: “It feels like he’s back” when discussing McManus’s recovery from the quad issue.
What Are the Legal Claims in the Lawsuit?
Civil Sexual Assault Claims
The lawsuit alleged civil sexual assault under Florida law, which allows victims to seek monetary damages for:
- Physical contact without consent
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress
- Battery and unwanted touching
Civil assault claims have a lower burden of proof than criminal charges (preponderance of evidence vs. beyond reasonable doubt).
Sexual Harassment and Hostile Work Environment
The plaintiffs alleged McManus and other Jaguars players created a sexually hostile work environment in violation of:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Florida Civil Rights Act
- Federal Aviation Administration regulations protecting flight crew
Negligence Claims Against the Jaguars
The lawsuit claimed the Jaguars were negligent for:
- Failing to supervise players
- Not implementing adequate anti-harassment policies
- Ignoring previous complaints about player behavior
- Creating an unsafe work environment for contracted flight crew
Who Was Affected by This Lawsuit?
The Alleged Victims
Daisy Torres and Nicole Anderson alleged they suffered:
- Sexual assault and unwanted physical contact
- Emotional distress and psychological harm
- Fear and anxiety about working future charter flights
- Reputational harm from having to publicly disclose the allegations
Brandon McManus
Despite being cleared by the NFL and settling the lawsuit, McManus experienced:
- Release by the Washington Commanders
- Four months unemployed during the 2024 season
- Significant legal fees and settlement costs
- Reputational damage from the allegations
Jacksonville Jaguars Organization
The Jaguars faced:
- Negative publicity about organizational culture
- Scrutiny of charter flight protocols
- Potential liability for player conduct
- Questions about supervision and accountability
Atlas Air and Flight Crews
Atlas Air, the charter flight provider, faced questions about:
- Employee safety protocols
- Procedures for handling passenger misconduct
- Support for flight attendants reporting harassment
Broader Implications for NFL Accountability
Similar Cases in Professional Sports
The McManus lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of sexual misconduct allegations against professional athletes:
Deshaun Watson (NFL): Faced 24 civil lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct; settled most cases; received 11-game NFL suspension in 2022
Trevor Bauer (MLB): Faced sexual assault allegations; received 194-game suspension (later reduced); signed with international teams after MLB career stalled
NFL’s Challenge: Balancing due process for accused players with accountability and support for alleged victims
NFL Personal Conduct Policy
The NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy states players can be disciplined for behavior that “undermines or puts at risk the integrity of the NFL.” However, the policy has faced criticism for:
- Inconsistent enforcement
- Lengthy investigation timelines
- Lack of transparency in decision-making
- Difficulty proving allegations without criminal convictions
Workplace Protections for Flight Crews
The case highlighted gaps in protections for charter flight crews working with professional sports teams:
- Flight attendants are not team employees, creating jurisdictional questions
- Federal aviation regulations may conflict with state employment laws
- Power dynamics between high-profile athletes and service workers
What Should Victims of Similar Misconduct Do?
Immediate Actions
Report to Authorities: File reports with local law enforcement and, if applicable, airline security or the FAA.
Document Everything: Take contemporaneous notes about what happened, when, where, and who witnessed it.
Seek Medical Attention: Document injuries and emotional distress with medical professionals.
Preserve Evidence: Save text messages, emails, photos, videos, or other documentation.
Report to Employer: Notify your employer (airline, charter company, team) through proper channels.
Legal Options
Criminal Complaints: File police reports that could lead to criminal charges (though this did not occur in the McManus case).
Civil Lawsuits: Pursue monetary damages through civil sexual assault, harassment, or negligence claims.
EEOC Complaints: File complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for workplace harassment.
Aviation Complaints: Report incidents to the FAA if they occurred on commercial or charter flights.
Support Resources
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or online.rainn.org
National Sexual Assault Hotline: Confidential support 24/7
Employment Attorneys: Consult attorneys specializing in sexual harassment and employment law
Victim Advocacy Organizations: Local and national organizations provide counseling and legal support
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Brandon McManus accused of?
Two flight attendants alleged McManus sexually assaulted them on a September 28, 2023 charter flight, including unwanted touching, grinding against them, and attempting to kiss them without consent.
Q: Was Brandon McManus criminally charged?
No. No criminal charges were filed. The case was only a civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages.
Q: Did the NFL suspend Brandon McManus?
No. The NFL cleared McManus on September 30, 2024, finding insufficient evidence to discipline him under the Personal Conduct Policy.
Q: When was the Brandon McManus lawsuit settled?
October 16, 2024. Both parties announced the case was “resolved” with confidential settlement terms.
Q: How much did Brandon McManus pay to settle?
The settlement amount was not disclosed. Terms were kept confidential as part of the agreement.
Q: Did Brandon McManus admit guilt?
No. The settlement included no admission of wrongdoing or liability by McManus or the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Q: Is Brandon McManus still playing in the NFL?
Yes. As of December 2025, McManus is the starting kicker for the Green Bay Packers, who signed him to a three-year, $15.3 million contract extension in March 2025.
Q: What happened to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the lawsuit?
The Jaguars were also named as defendants for allegedly failing to supervise players and creating an unsafe work environment. The settlement resolved claims against both McManus and the Jaguars.
Q: Why did the Washington Commanders release Brandon McManus?
Washington released McManus on June 3, 2024, two days after the lawsuit became public, though the team did not provide an official reason.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a resolved civil lawsuit. It does not constitute legal advice. Settlement of civil cases is not an admission of guilt. For legal questions, consult an attorney.
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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