Dr. James Andrews, the go-to orthopedic surgeon for elite athletes, faces mounting legal issues over allegations of career-ending malpractice. Two ex-NFL players sued Andrews in recent years, accusing him of negligently performing knee surgeries that permanently damaged them.
Ex-Vikings Defender, Sharrif Floyd Sued James Andrews for $180M in 2018 Over Unauthorized Knee Procedure
In November 2018, former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd filed a massive $180 million lawsuit against Andrews in Florida court. The suit centered on a September 2016 knee operation.
Floyd Alleges Andrews Exceeded Approved Surgery
According to Floyd, Andrews performed a far more invasive cartilage regeneration procedure than the simple arthroscopic surgery Floyd had consented to. The lawsuit accused Andrews of allowing the unapproved operation that ended Floyd’s season and NFL career.
Lawsuit Blamed Nerve Damage on Improper Post-Op Care
The suit also alleged Andrews’ fellow surgeons improperly administered a pain blocker after the surgery, causing severe permanent nerve damage in Floyd’s leg. This left the 27-year-old unable to play football again per the lawsuit.
Floyd Sought $180M in Damages for Lost NFL Earnings
The $180 million in damages sought reflected Floyd’s lost NFL salary, endorsements, pain and suffering, and other financial harms he allegedly sustained.
Ex-Titans Tackle Taylor Lewan Lawsuit Against James Andrews in 2023 Over Failed ACL Reconstruction
In May 2023, former Tennessee Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan filed a new malpractice lawsuit against Andrews over a botched ACL repair.
Lewan Claims Andrews’ Mistakes Caused Permanent Knee Damage
The lawsuit alleges Andrews improperly performed the ACL reconstruction surgery in October 2020, resulting in permanent knee damage that shortened Lewan’s NFL career.
There have been a lot of questions regarding the future of my career in the NFL.
Although this doesn’t answer every question, I believe it’s important for you all to know what’s transpired since my ACL Surgery in October of 2020 pic.twitter.com/nVtFNAKjcG— Taylor Lewan (@TaylorLewan77) May 2, 2023
Titans Release Came After Lewan Re-tore Same ACL
After two seasons of lingering knee issues, Lewan re-tore the same ACL in 2022. The Titans then released the 31-year-old former Pro Bowler in February 2023 following a failed team physical.
Lawsuit Seeks Over $50K for Lost Earnings, Pain and Suffering
Lewan’s lawsuit seeks over $50,000 in damages for medical costs, lost NFL salary, pain and suffering due to Andrews’ alleged negligence.
Lawsuits Threaten Reputation of Dr. James Andrews as Premier Sports Surgeon
Andrews has treated countless big-name athletes at his renowned clinics, earning a reputation as a premier sports surgeon. But the lawsuits present a serious challenge.
First Major Malpractice Claims Against Andrews
Despite past controversies, these mark the highest-profile malpractice allegations against Andrews in his over 40-year career. Andrews maintains the allegations are unfounded.
Legal Process Will Assess Validity of Negligence Claims
The merits of the negligence claims will now be vetted through extensive legal proceedings. Out-of-court settlements seem unlikely given the large damages.
Impact on James Andrews’ Legacy Unclear as Cases Unfold
How much the lawsuits will affect Andrews’ storied career remains uncertain as the cases unfold. For now, his reputation has taken a major hit amid intensified scrutiny.
With two ex-NFL players alleging Andrews botched surgeries ruined their careers, the famous surgeon faces uphill legal battles to salvage his image as cases cast doubt on his surgical skills.
