Robinson Alleges Chiefs Fired Him Unjustly and Paid Black Employees Less Than White Workers

On June 18, 2025, Ramzee Robinson, a former NFL defensive back, initiated a lawsuit against the Kansas City Chiefs, claiming wrongful termination and racial discrimination. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, the lawsuit asserts the Chiefs discriminated against Robinson, a Black individual, during his nine-year role as director of player engagement, highlighting troubling issues surrounding workplace equality in the NFL. Robinson, 41, who previously played for the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns, joined the Chiefs in 2016. His responsibilities included locker room management and player mentorship. The lawsuit contends Robinson was dismissed in February 2025 following an unsubstantiated allegation of misconduct against a co-worker, which he disputes. His reported salary of $125,000 is said to fall short of the average $171,932 for similar NFL roles. The suit also cites disparities in pay between Black employees and their white counterparts. Robinson seeks $5 million in damages as well as equitable relief. In response, the Chiefs issued a statement affirming their non-tolerance for discrimination and their readiness to address the claims in court.