Judge dismisses sexual assault case against free agent NFL kicker

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A judge in Florida dismissed a case against NFL kicker Brandon McManus that said he sexually assaulted two women on a team plane to London.

Judge Michael S. Sharrit ruled that per Florida law the two women's usage of "Jane Doe I" and "Jane Doe II" pseudonyms does not meet "exceptional case" criteria required to warrant party anonymity. 

Sharrit added that "fairness requires Plaintiffs be prepared to stand behind their charges publicly in the same way Defendant McManus must openly refute them."

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Brandon McManus #10 of the Jacksonville Jaguars looks on from the field during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at EverBank Stadium on December 17, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

"Most defendants in sexual assault cases file these types of motions thinking that the victims won't proceed if they have to publicly reveal their names," Tony Buzbee said in a statement to ESPN. "We anticipated this ruling. To be clear, these women have no intention to run and hide, and will comply with the court's order in a timely fashion. We look forward to continuing to pursue this important case."

Doe I and Doe II say McManus was rubbing and grinding himself against them while in flight as a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The flight "quickly turned into a party," the suit alleges, as McManus threw $100 bills at flight attendants in exchange for dancing inappropriately for him.

Brandon McManus #10 of the Jacksonville Jaguars walks off of the field after an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on November 26, 2023 in Houston, Texas. (Cooper