Supreme Court won't intervene in Brian Flores' suit vs. NFL
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- The Supreme Court declined to intervene in Brian Flores' discrimination lawsuit against the NFL, allowing the case to proceed to trial in open court rather than arbitration.
- Flores, along with fellow Black coaches Steve Wilks and Ray Horton, alleges systemic racism in the NFL's hiring practices for coaching positions.
- The NFL wanted the case resolved through its arbitration process, but lower courts ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, a decision the Supreme Court upheld despite Justice Kavanaugh's dissent.
- Flores, fired by the Miami Dolphins in 2021 after a 24-25 record, sued the NFL and three teams, claiming discriminatory treatment during hiring processes; Wilks also alleges being used as a "bridge coach" without a genuine opportunity for advancement.
- The NFL stated it respects the Supreme Court's decision and is prepared to defend itself as the lawsuit moves forward, while the plaintiffs' attorneys expressed satisfaction that the case will be litigated publicly.