Women's Group Calling For Action Against Manning

A national women's rights group is calling for prominent companies including Papa John's and Nationwide to suspend their relationships with Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, after allegations of a sexual assault against him from 20 years ago resurfaced.

"When institutions like the University of Tennessee tacitly condone violence against women by ignoring cases of sexual assault by student-athletes, it perpetuates a dangerous culture of violence that ultimately hurts women everywhere," Nita Chaudhary, co-founder of UltraViolet, said in a release.

"Nationwide Insurance and Papa John's Pizza must show their customers that they will never stand for sexual violence -- and suspend their relationships with Manning pending further investigation."

Manning was alleged to have placed his genitals on the face of a female trainer in 1996, when he was a player at the University of Tennessee. The trainer, Jamie Naughright, filed a complaint and later settled the case with the university.

The allegation against Manning resurfaced last week when six unnamed women filed suit against Tennessee, claiming the school is fostering a hostile environment for women. Manning is not being sued or accused of anything in the latest suit. Rather, the incident was included in a list of examples used to help bolster the women's claims.

Manning has made no public comment on the issue.

"While it is outrageous that the University of Tennessee chose to turn a blind eye to sexual violence by student athletes like Manning, it would be flat-out unacceptable for the NFL and major companies like Nationwide Insurance and Papa John's Pizza to continue to stand with Manning in light of emerging evidence," Chaudhary said in the statement. "The NFL should thoroughly investigate this incident before allowing Manning to play or work in (the) NFL again."

UltraViolet has previously called for the resignation of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after his initial handling of the Ray Rice domestic violence incident in 2014.

Colts' Newsome Arrested

Colts linebacker Jonathan Newsome was arrested early Wednesday morning on charges of possession of marijuana, Fox59.com reported.

According to the website, Zionsville (Indiana) police arrived at Newsome's apartment after receiving a complaint about loud music. Officers found marijuana there during the investigation.

Police say Newsome was cooperative when taken into custody on two counts of possession of marijuana.

The Colts said in a statement that they were aware of the reports of Newsome's arrest, "but until we have had an opportunity to review the facts relevant to the case, it would be inappropriate for us to make a comment."

While at Ball State, Newsome was suspended two games following an August 2012 possession arrest when a bag containing marijuana was found in his wallet.

Newsome, the Colts' fifth-round draft pick in 2014, tied for the team lead in sacks that season with 6.5. He only had one sack this past season.