Buffalo Bills’ first-round draft pick Maxwell Hairston faces a civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault during his time at the University of Kentucky. The plaintiff, Rebecca Hendryx, claims the incident occurred in March 2021, raising questions about the NFL’s vetting process and the legal implications for the rookie cornerback.
Key Details of the Sexual Assault Allegations
The Alleged Incident (March 24, 2021)
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Uninvited Dorm Room Entry: Hairston reportedly arrived at Hendryx’s dorm unannounced after months without prior contact.
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Non-Consensual Act: Court filings allege Hairston ignored verbal refusals before forcibly assaulting her.
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Immediate Reporting: Hendryx underwent a SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) test and filed a report with university police.
Legal Proceedings & Timeline
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No Criminal Charges: Lexington police did not pursue charges, citing insufficient evidence.
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Civil Lawsuit Filed (2025): Hendryx seeks compensatory damages for emotional distress and academic disruption.
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NFL Investigation Pending: The league may review the case under its Personal Conduct Policy.
University of Kentucky’s Response & Title IX Investigation
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No Disciplinary Action: The university’s Title IX office closed its investigation without penalties against Hairston.
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Plaintiff’s Claims: Hendryx alleges the school failed to protect her, leading to her eventual transfer.
Buffalo Bills’ Due Diligence Before Drafting Hairston
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Pre-Draft Background Check: The team conducted interviews with Kentucky staff, reviewed police records, and administered a polygraph test.
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Public Statement: GM Brandon Beane stated they found “no disqualifying information” but will monitor the lawsuit.
Comparative Cases: NFL’s Handling of Player Misconduct
| Player | Team | Allegation | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matt Araiza | Bills | Gang Rape (2022) | Released, Case Dropped |
| Von Miller | Broncos | Domestic Violence | 4-Game Suspension |
| Maxwell Hairston | Bills | Sexual Assault | Civil Suit Pending |
Potential Consequences for Hairston & the Bills
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NFL Discipline: Possible suspension if evidence emerges, though precedent suggests leniency for pre-draft incidents.
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Team’s Options: Bills could retain, cut, or place Hairston on the Commissioner’s Exempt List pending trial.
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Reputation Risk: Case adds to scrutiny of NFL teams drafting players with unresolved legal issues.
Conclusion: What Comes Next?
The lawsuit presents a critical challenge for Hairston’s NFL career and the Bills’ front office. As legal proceedings unfold, key developments to watch include:
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Discovery Phase: Potential new evidence from depositions or documents.
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NFL’s Ruling: Whether the league intervenes before the civil case concludes.
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Public & Sponsor Reactions: Pressure on the Bills to address the allegations.
Follow updates via U.S. District Court records (Case No. 25-cv-412) and official NFL statements.
