National Football League

Ex-49ers DE McDonald reportedly sues sexual assault accuser

Published Mar. 17, 2015 8:47 a.m. ET

foxsports

Former San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald filed a lawsuit Monday against the woman who accused him of sexual assault in December, according to multiple reports.

McDonald, who currently is a free agent, was released by the 49ers on Dec. 17 after police in San Jose, Calif., began their investigation.

McDonald's lawyer, Steve DeFilippis, told USA Today that he believes teams are staying away from McDonald until the case is resolved.

"His whole career is being destroyed," DeFilippis said.

"He's a phenomenal football player, and teams are interested. But there is this cloud hanging over him."

McDonald, who spent his entire eight-year career with the 49ers and accounted for 19.5 sacks during that time, was also under investigation last year for domestic violence stemming from an Aug. 31 arrest after getting into an argument with his fiancee. No charges were filed in the incident due to lack of evidence and lack of cooperation from the woman, the Santa Clara district attorney said.