The head coach and general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars have been subpoenaed in a federal lawsuit involving a former strength coach who left the team amid backlash earlier this year.
Jaguars coach Urban Meyer and GM Trent Baalke were subpoenaed in a federal lawsuit filed in Iowa over allegations of racial discrimination in the Iowa Hawkeyes football program.
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In February, former Iowa strength coach Chris Doyle resigned from the Jaguars, only days after he was hired, amid accusations by several Black former Iowa players that he had tried to motivate players through racist bullying, frequently criticizing their hairstyles and clothes, and threatening to send players who couldn't meet his demanding workout goals "back to the ghetto." The lawsuit also claims those who spoke out against Doyle were punished with retaliation.
Doyle reportedly left Iowa with a separation payout of roughly $1.1M before landing his short-lived gig in Jacksonville.
The subpoena seeks testimony from the Jaguars officials about Doyle's abrupt exit.
Baalke and Meyer submitted written responses rather than appearing at court proceedings in person, the team said.
"We respect and will cooperate with the legal process as required," the team said. "However, the Jaguars have no information that would be relevant to the lawsuit between student-athletes and the University of Iowa."
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An investigation by an outside law firm found that the program "perpetuated racial and culture biases and diminished the value of cultural diversity," and permitted coaches to belittle players with impunity, ESPN reported.
At the time of his hire, Meyer said he had known Doyle for a long time and personally vetted him for the Jaguars job.
"I feel great about the hire," Meyer said.
Days later, Doyle was gone.
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