USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Two former Cardinals employees sue team, Michael Bidwill for racial discrimination

Two former Arizona Cardinals employees have filed a joint lawsuit against the team and owner Michael Bidwill, alleging racial discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination. Kendra Hogue, a former executive assistant, and Don Shumpert, a former assistant coach, filed the complaint in Arizona state court on May 26, with the defendants later moving the case to federal court.

Judge John Hinderaker then ordered the dispute to arbitration on September 19, with the NFL Commissioner selecting the arbitrator. The case now hinges on whether the league’s mandatory arbitration clauses—often criticized for favoring teams—will be enforced, following a recent shift in legal precedent that has weakened the NFL’s ability to force such proceedings.

The lawsuit comes amid broader scrutiny of the league’s arbitration system, particularly after the high-profile Brian Flores case, which also involves the Cardinals and has seen key claims move from arbitration to open court after years of legal battles. The Ninth Circuit’s history of pro-worker rulings may offer the plaintiffs a stronger long-term argument in their fight against the NFL’s contractual terms.

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