A statement from Sharpe's lawyer said the relationship was consensual and called the lawsuit a "blatant and cynical attempt to shake down" Sharpe for millions of dollars.

Sharpe has denied the allegations in the lawsuit and plans to launch a countersuit targeting the plaintiff and her lawyer, Tony Buzbee, who has attempted to sue other public figures such as Jay-Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs.

Despite making headlines this week for rape and sexual assault, Shannon Sharpe still showed up to the NFL Draft. Sharpe recorded an episode of his Nightcap podcast with fellow retired NFL legend Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson.