Brian Flores, the former coach of Miami Dolphins, on Tuesday filed a lawsuit against the NFL and three teams alleging racist hiring practices for coaches and general managers. The 40-year-old was fired by the Dolphins last month. 

In a statement released by his lawyers, Flores said,”God has gifted me with a special talent to coach the game of football, but the need for change is bigger than my personal goals.”

Also read: Brian Flores, Bill Belichick’s text messages at centre of racism lawsuit against NFL

The lawsuit states that Flores recieved chilly treatment from the Dolphins after he refused to accept a $100,000-a-game offer from the club his first season to “tank” so it could secure the top draft pick. He was fired last month after leading the team to a 24-25 record over three years. They went 9-8 in their second straight winning season, but failed to make the playoffs during his tenure. 

Who is Brian Flores?

Raised in Brooklyn, New York, Brian Flores played football at Boston College as a linebacker from 1999 through 2002. However, he did not make it to the NFL due to an injury. 

Also read: What is the Rooney Rule in NFL?

His NFL career began with the New England Patriots as an assistant coach in 2008. He served in the position for 10 years. Flores was New England’s defensive playcaller during his final season coaching for the team. His tenure with them conculded with a Super Bowl title in Super Bowl LIII. The 40-year-old then joined Miami Dolphins as their head coach. 

  Also Read: Tom Brady retires: Stats and records that make him the NFL GOAT

Flores’ best season was in 2020 when the Dolphins posted a 10-6 record, but did not make the playoffs. They were 9-8 this past season.

Firing Brian Flores, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross cited for the decision seemed to have little to do with the on-field product and more with communication within the team’s braintrust — though there were no specific examples offered of how the team determined Flores wasn’t the right fit in those regards.