Former Buccaneers receiver Deven Thompkins was accused of domestic violence in May, which he has vehemently denied. Now, he is taking legal action against his ex-wife. On Friday, court documents show Thompkins accuses Maria Castilhos of defamation in the 14-page civil complaint.
The lawsuit details numerous incidents pointing to a tumultuous relationship. For instance, on October 31, 2022, Castilhos allegedly “donned a ski mask and attacked Plaintiff’s then-current girlfriend at a party by punching her in the nose and ripping the hair extensions from her head.”
Thompkins also claims that Castilhos attempted to blackmail him. According to the document, “Defendant threatened that, unless Plaintiff complied with her extortive demands, Defendant would release photographs of apparent injuries to her face and arms, along with videos of Plaintiff verbally arguing with Defendant, and would falsely report to the public that the injuries were a result of domestic violence perpetrated by Plaintiff.”
In a supposed attempt at reconciliation, Castilhos allegedly agreed to delete photos she claimed showed domestic abuse, texting Thompkins, “I’m done blackmailing you. You have my word.”
After Thompkins signed a one-year, $985,000 deal with the Buccaneers in February 2024, he alleges that Castilhos “renewed her extortive threats that she would falsely accuse Plaintiff of domestic violence unless he agreed to pay her more alimony.”
In May 2024, Castilhos allegedly posted videos on TikTok accusing Thompkins of domestic abuse. Thompkins denies causing any of the injuries shown and claims she altered the photos to fabricate injuries. The Buccaneers released Thompkins roughly a week after the first TikTok video was posted.
Thompkins is seeking at least the $985,000 he lost after being released by the Buccaneers, plus other specific forms of compensation. Thompkins appears to care more about clearing his name, to restore his reputation.
Undrafted in 2022, Thompkins spent two years with the Buccaneers. In 22 regular-season games, he recorded 22 catches for 115 yards and one touchdown, along with 10 rushing attempts for 82 yards.
As this legal battle unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the complexities and personal tolls involved in high-profile relationships and the serious nature of defamation claims.