by John Luciew | May 24, 2024

Two big-name Penn State stars will take the stand next week in fired football doctor Scott Lynch’s wrongful termination trail.

But Eagles running back Saquon Barkley and free agent QB Trace McSorley will not be appearing for Lynch, who was ousted as orthopedic consultant to the football team and medical director for Penn State Athletics in March 2019.

Instead, the pair are being called by the defense to talk about their respective college football injuries and how they were handled by Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin.

“Saquon and Trace just want to speak their truth,” defense attorney Sarah Bouchard told Dauphin County Court Judge Andrew Dowling. “This directly impacts them.”

Lynch claims his ouster followed repeated clashes with Franklin over player injuries after the head coach took over in 2014. Lynch claims he was terminated from his dual roles because he refused to “allow a coach to interfere with his medical treatment and return to play decisions.”

After taking the issue under advisement over lunch, Dowling returned after recess and approved both players to take the witness stand.

Lynch says he reported Franklin’s interference to Penn State Athletics and Penn State Health, including his immediate supervisor there, Dr. Kevin Black, who’s also being sued by Lynch. He is seeking both compensatory and punitive damages in the case.

The defense suggests the two players have a different story to tell.

If you or someone you know believes you have been wrongfully terminated from employment, Marino Associates can help.  Use the free case evaluation form  or call 215-462-3200 to speak to one of our expert attorneys who will give you immediate answers to important questions.