Shannon Sharpe has been caught in a whirlwind of headlines as of late due to claims that have been leveled against him. The 56-year-old former tight end is being sued for $50 million by a Jane Doe who’s accused him of raping her multiple times and threatening her.

The Hall of Fame tight end and popular podcaster says he's taking a break from ESPN duties to deal with sexual assault allegations.

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.