Full Breakdown
NFL Retains Attorney Brad Karp Amid Epstein Ties
5/22/2026, 2:00:30 AM
Core Event and Background
The NFL continues to rely on Brad Karp, a senior partner at Paul Weiss, as lead counsel in two lawsuits. Emails released in 2024 show Karp corresponded with Jeffrey Epstein from the mid-2010s to 2019. The contact began when Paul Weiss represented Leon Black, Apollo co-founder who paid Epstein $170 million. Karp and Epstein discussed surveillance of a woman tied to Black and suggested revoking her visa, and Karp attended a 2016 dinner at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion. Karp also sought Epstein’s help securing a movie job for his son and for legal assistance to Robert Kraft and John Havens after a 2019 Palm Beach sting; those charges were later dropped. Karp resigned as Paul Weiss chair in February 2024 but stays senior partner and continues representing the NFL.
Why It Matters
The NFL’s brand, especially among youth, faces scrutiny when its legal team is linked to a convicted sex-trafficker. Critics say the league should avoid any appearance of complicity; the organization cites Karp’s long-standing client relationships as justification.
Official Statements & Responses
The NFL declined comment. Paul Weiss said Karp attended two group dinners and exchanged emails, which he regrets. Karp offered no comment, citing reporting. Commissioner Roger Goodell said league will “look at all the facts” before deciding on an investigation of Steve Tisch and noted the issue would be discussed with Giants.
Criticism & Opposition
Rep. Wesley Bell (D-MO) called the situation “lawful, but awful,” urging the NFL to reassess its attorney choices. He introduced the EPSTEIN Act, proposing a commission to oversee investigations and stressing the league’s responsibility.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No public NFL assessment of Karp’s ethical suitability is available, leaving a gap between internal decision-making and external expectations. The precise legal relevance of the surveillance discussion remains ambiguous.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s one of those things that’s lawful, but awful,” — Rep. Wesley Bell, D-MO
- “The NFL, considering the place they hold in our society – much less with kids – I think should be very sensitive to the people they associate with. Very questionable, I think.” — Rep. Wesley Bell
- “Organizations like the NFL that hold the type of place in our society that impacts and influences all parts of our society do have a higher responsibility,” — Rep. Wesley Bell
- “Mr. Karp attended two group dinners in New York City and had a small number of social interactions by email, all of which he regrets.” — Paul Weiss statement
What’s Next
The EPSTEIN Act could trigger congressional oversight of the NFL’s attorney-vetting. The league must also ready for the 2027 Gruden trial amid pressure to distance itself from Epstein-linked individuals.
