BREAKING: Commanders make official important players roster decision amid disgraceful allegations
The Washington Commanders have encountered an unwelcome predicament during what is typically a quiet period in the NFL calendar. Their newly signed kicker, Brandon McManus, has been accused of sexual assault by two flight attendants, stemming from an incident on a Jacksonville Jaguars team flight to London during the 2023 season.
Although this incident did not occur while McManus was with the Commanders, it has cast a shadow over his tenure with the team, putting his future in serious doubt. As a result, Washington decided to part ways with McManus on Sunday night, leaving them to start from scratch in their search for a new kicker.
Commanders need to find new kicker in wake of Brandon McManus release
These serious allegations against Brandon McManus have forced the Washington Commanders to take immediate action. Initially, the team opted to wait for more evidence, but after further consideration, they decided to part ways with McManus amid the disturbing claims.
Commanders are releasing kicker Brandon McManus, who is being accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit filed last month.
Commanders continue OTAs on Monday and they do so without currently having a kicker on their roster. pic.twitter.com/8kmuaoTN61
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 2, 2024
This decision, while understandable, leaves Washington in need of a new kicker. They signed McManus, who had a strong 2023 season with the Jaguars, to replace the inconsistent Joey Slye. Ironically, Slye signed with the Jaguars in free agency.
We have released K Brandon McManus
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) June 2, 2024
The hope was that McManus would be an improvement in 2024, but those plans have now been upended.
Currently, the Commanders do not have another kicker on their roster. With OTAs resuming on Monday, they need to find a replacement quickly. The free agent market is the most straightforward option, but the available choices are not particularly appealing, and any new addition is likely to be a downgrade from McManus, who has been one of the more reliable kickers in the league for over a decade.
It’s done. The Washington Commanders have released kicker Brandon McManus.pic.twitter.com/DjK5J506nE
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) June 2, 2024
McManus’s future remains uncertain as he deals with these allegations. The two women accusing him are seeking a jury trial, which could result in a lengthy legal process as McManus attempts to prove his innocence. Until this case is resolved, it is unlikely he will find a new team in the NFL.
This situation is challenging for all parties involved. Washington’s decision to move on from McManus was almost inevitable, given the circumstances. Now, the Commanders must quickly find a new kicker to ensure their special teams units remain on track.