Former Dallas Cowboys legend Michael Irvin has made a triumphant return to NFL Network after settling his $100 million defamation lawsuit against Marriott.
Key Takeaway
Michael Irvin has resolved his defamation lawsuit against Marriott and has returned to NFL Network after a suspension. The terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, but Irvin’s reinstatement marks his comeback to football analysis.
The Hall of Famer was all smiles on “NFL Gameday Morning” as he was introduced by host Rich Eisen, stating on the show, “It feels good to be here.”
Irvin’s Suspension and Allegations
This marked Irvin’s first appearance since February, when he was suspended following allegations of inappropriate behavior towards a Marriott employee during Super Bowl week in Phoenix.
The employee, identified as Jane Doe in court documents, claimed that Irvin approached her near the hotel bar, complimented her appearance, and then asked if she knew anything about “having a big black man inside her.”
Irvin vehemently denied the claims and subsequently filed a lawsuit against Marriott, accusing the hotel of falsely and recklessly accusing him of misconduct to the National Football League (NFL), resulting in significant financial losses. Irvin and his attorney, Levi McCathern, even released a video of the encounter, asserting that it was nothing more than a brief and innocuous conversation.
Settlement and Return to NFL Network
According to the Dallas Morning News, the parties recently reached a settlement, paving the way for Irvin’s return to NFL Network. The terms of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed.
A spokesperson for NFL Network stated, “Michael Irvin has been reinstated and will be part of NFL Network’s coverage for the 2023 season.”
