NEW YORK — Fired Miami Dolphins Coach Brian Flores has sued the NFL and three of its teams, alleging racist hiring practices by the league have left it racially segregated and managed like a plantation.
The lawsuit was filed in Manhattan federal court. Lawyers sought class-action status for the legal filing.
Among the teams that Flores is suing include the Dolphins, Giants and the Broncos.
Read the full lawsuit below:
Flores was fired last month by Miami after leading the Dolphins to a 24-25 record over three years.
They went 9-8 in their second straight winning season, but failed to make the playoffs during his tenure.
Jason Jenkins, the Dolphins' senior vice president of communications, said the team "vehemently" denies the allegations.
Read the team's statement below:
"We are aware of the lawsuit through the media reports that came out this afternoon. We vehemently deny any allegations of racial discrimination and are proud of the diversity and inclusion throughout our organization. The implication that we acted in a manner inconsistent with the integrity of the game is incorrect. We will be withholding further comment on the lawsuit at this time."
The NFL released a statement Tuesday evening, saying the lawsuit was "without merit."
Read the NFL's full statement regarding the matter below:
"The NFL and our clubs are deeply committed to ensuring equitable employment practices and continue to make progress in providing equitable opportunities throughout our organizations. Diversity is core to everything we do, and there are few issues on which our clubs and our internal leadership team spend more time. We will defend against these claims, which are without merit."