NFL superstar quarterback Eli Manning has been accused of playing a part in an alleged scheme to sell fake New York Giants memorabilia.
According to the New York Post, court documents show Manning sent an email to equipment manager Joe Skiba asking for two helmets that could pass as "game used."
The Giants put out a statement on Thursday denying the allegations, saying Manning is innocent and the suit is a dealer's attempt to get money from the organization.
The following statement was released on behalf of the NY Giants... pic.twitter.com/BfMHEBcu7V
— New York Giants (@Giants) April 13, 2017
The email Manning allegedly sent read, "2 helmets that can pass as game used. That is it. Eli."
Bogus gear apparently abounds
Bleacher Report says Manning and the Giants were first sued in 2014 over these allegations and noted that this isn't the first time the Giants have been accused of bogus gear schemes.
Former NFL player Michael Strahan was reportedly given a jersey he thought was worn during the 2008 Super Bowl. Allegedly, one of Manning's bogus game-used helmets is also sitting in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
This is just the latest misguided attempt to defame [Manning's] character.
In her statement, Giants spokesperson Karen Kessler said, "The email predates any litigation, and there was no legal obligation to store it on the Giants server. Eli Manning is well known for his integrity and this is just the latest misguided attempt to defame his character."
But the allegations don't bode well for Manning. In another email, Skiba appears to admit to the plaintiff that the two-time Super Bowl winning QB didn't want to give up the real gear, and so, he helped create the fake stuff.