A former assistant to Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill, Brittany Neuheisel, has filed a lawsuit alleging workplace harassment and wrongful termination. Neuheisel, who worked for Bidwill from 2019 until her resignation last week, claims she was subjected to verbal abuse and mistreatment, leading to her departure.
The lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of Maricopa County, includes allegations of constructive discharge, discrimination, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Neuheisel’s attorney, Mike Caspino, stated that she left the team in distress after a particularly harsh verbal confrontation with Bidwill.
Allegations of Abuse and Misconduct
Neuheisel’s complaint describes a toxic work environment where Bidwill allegedly demeaned and harassed her daily. She claims Bidwill demanded she sever ties with her family, stating that her relationships were negatively impacting her work.
Furthermore, the lawsuit alleges that Bidwill instructed Neuheisel to make false claims, including illegally shipping a firearm via FedEx and falsifying information on federal and international travel forms. Neuheisel, a practicing Catholic, states that when she refused these requests, Bidwill dismissively told her to “do it and then go to confession.”
The lawsuit also accuses Bidwill of age and gender discrimination, alleging that he wanted to replace Neuheisel, a 54-year-old Navy veteran, with someone “young, beautiful, and athletic.” After hiring a woman who fits this description, Neuheisel claims her responsibilities were reduced and transferred to the new employee.
This alleged discriminatory behavior further contributed to her decision to leave the team. The complaint underscores a pattern of mistreatment and a toxic workplace culture fostered by Bidwill.
Cardinals’ Response and Legal Proceedings
The Arizona Cardinals have strongly denied the allegations, stating that the lawsuit was an attempt to extract money from the team through a legal threat. In a statement, the team emphasized its commitment to defending itself in court and dismissed the claims as baseless.
In response, Neuheisel’s attorney defended their legal actions, asserting that pre-litigation settlement discussions are standard practice in such cases. The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and unspecified damages, highlighting the severity of Neuheisel’s claims against Bidwill and the organization.
Neuheisel’s lawsuit adds to the ongoing scrutiny of the Arizona Cardinals’ workplace culture under Bidwill. In 2023, ESPN investigated similar allegations following a complaint by Terry McDonough, the team’s former vice president of player personnel.
McDonough accused Bidwill of gross misconduct, discrimination, and harassment, ultimately winning a $3 million arbitration ruling for defamatory statements made by the Cardinals. Shortly after, McDonough’s wife and daughter also filed a lawsuit against Bidwill and the organization, further cementing concerns about the team’s work environment. The new lawsuit from Neuheisel intensifies the legal and reputational challenges facing Bidwill and the Cardinals.