Attorney Tony Buzbee has become a recognizable figure in the NFL’s legal landscape since 2021, initially gaining prominence for representing the first plaintiff in misconduct lawsuits against then-Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson. His involvement in high-profile cases has consistently drawn national attention, establishing his reputation as a formidable legal force in sports-related disputes.

Most recently, Buzbee found himself at the center of another significant legal battle after settling a sexual assault lawsuit on behalf of a woman against Hall of Fame tight end Shannon Sharpe. Following the lawsuit’s filing in April, Sharpe publicly accused Buzbee of targeting Black men, escalating the legal dispute into a personal and racially charged controversy.

Responding to Sharpe’s direct claims, Buzbee firmly denied any racial motivation, stating, “I didn’t wake up one morning and say, ‘I want to sue Shannon Sharpe.’ If I think it’s a legitimate case, then I pursue it.” He emphasized his focus on the merits of each claim, asserting that his litigation strategy is based purely on the perceived validity of the case, not the race of the defendant.

Buzbee’s approach to the legal profession is characterized by pursuing what he identifies as strong cases, aiming for significant settlements or successful trials. This strategic methodology, focused on high-stakes litigation, has proven highly lucrative for his firm, as evidenced by the reported $4 million in fees from the Sharpe case, settled without Sharpe ever formally responding to the civil complaint.

His track record extends beyond the NFL; a notable example includes his work on the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, where he generated over $500 million for more than ten thousand clients against BP. This demonstrates his consistent pattern of engaging in large-scale, high-impact litigation, attracting a diverse range of clients with substantial claims.

Buzbee’s distinctive, publicity-driven style is a key aspect of his legal strategy. Unlike many attorneys who rely on traditional advertising, he leverages news coverage as a potent form of free advertisement. This approach, honed through cases like those involving Deshaun Watson and Shannon Sharpe, ensures his name remains prominent, making him a go-to choice for individuals with valid claims against public figures, particularly NFL players.

However, Buzbee’s success and strategic visibility have also made him a target. He is currently facing a lawsuit from Jay-Z, who alleges the attorney’s actions sparked significant business losses. This development underscores the inherent risks and counter-lawsuits that can arise in the world of high-profile cases and attorney tactics, even for a seasoned legal professional like Buzbee.