LAS VEGAS (AP) — Former NFL star Shannon Sharpe said Thursday he is temporarily stepping away from his ESPN duties while he deals with what he called false allegations in a $50 million civil lawsuit filed against him by a woman who alleges he raped and threatened her.

Use precise geolocation data and actively scan device characteristics for identification. This is done to store and access information on a device and to provide personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. List of Partners (vendors)

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.