New York Jets All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner has taken legal action against a Michigan construction company, claiming he was defrauded in a Detroit real estate investment that has cost him nearly $1.4 million.
The lawsuit, filed Monday in Wayne County, names Nicholas Sanborn of Sanborn Construction and the company itself as defendants. Gardner alleges the contractor lured him into purchasing a historic property based on false representations, then failed to perform promised renovation work despite receiving a substantial deposit.
According to the complaint, Gardner and Sanborn connected through social media in March 2026. Their online conversation evolved into discussions about a 102-year-old apartment building available for purchase in Detroit. The property caught Gardner's attention, particularly after Sanborn allegedly informed him that an adjacent property was also available for sale—a claim the lawsuit contends was false.
Gardner proceeded with the investment, purchasing the century-old building in May for $935,000. He subsequently hired Sanborn Construction to serve as general contractor for a comprehensive renovation of the property.
The Pro Bowl defensive back wired $500,000 to the construction company for the initial phase of work, which was to include windows, roofing, doors, and framing. Sanborn allegedly assured Gardner the entire project would be completed within months.
Instead of progress updates, Gardner received nothing, according to the legal filing. The lawsuit alleges the contractor provided no communication, no photographs documenting work, and no evidence of construction activity following receipt of the substantial payment.
Adding to Gardner's grievances, Sanborn allegedly posted a YouTube video after receiving the payment titled "COMPLETELY RESTORING An Abandoned 102 Year Old Historic Apartment Building With Sauce Gardner." The lawsuit claims the contractor used the NFL star's name and likeness for promotional purposes without authorization.
By July, Gardner had reached his limit with the lack of progress. He directed Sanborn to halt all work and return the $500,000 deposit. The lawsuit alleges the company disregarded this instruction and continued spending Gardner's money, including a $160,000 purchase at Home Depot 16 days after the cease-work order.
The legal complaint brings claims of breach of contract, unjust enrichment, fraudulent inducement, fraudulent concealment, and negligent misrepresentation against the defendants. Gardner is seeking the return of all funds paid to Sanborn Construction, plus additional damages resulting from the failed transaction.
Gardner is represented by Ben Levine of Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani. The defendants have not responded to requests for comment on the allegations.
The lawsuit represents a significant financial setback for the young cornerback, who has established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the National Football League since entering the league.