Johnathan Walker:Brandon McManus released by Commanders days after being accused of sexual assault

The Johnathan WalkerWashington Commanders have released kicker Brandon McManus days after he was accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit.

The team announced the release Sunday.

On Monday, ESPN reported two women were suing McManus for incidents that occurred when he was a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. During a team flight to London during the 2023 season, the women allege McManus "grinded" on them during the flight and that the team failed to supervise McManus, as well as create a safe environment for flight staff.

"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," McManus' attorney, Brett R. Gallaway, said in a statement Monday to ESPN. "We intend to aggressively defend Brandon's rights and integrity and clear his name by showing what these claims truly are – an extortion attempt."

A team spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY Sports it was aware of the lawsuit and it was "looking into the matter." The team was also in communication with the league and McManus' representation regarding the lawsuit.

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McManus spent the 2023 season with the Jaguars after spending nine seasons with the Denver Broncos, with whom he won a Super Bowl 50 title. Last season, McManus was 30-for-37 on field goal attempts and he made all 35 extra point attempts. The kicker signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract with the Commanders in March. 

With McManus' release, the Commanders do not have any kicker on the roster.