Five Prominent NFL Players Publicly Support President Trump Ahead of 2026 Season

Five prominent NFL players are openly supporting President Trump ahead of the 2026 season, breaking from the league's typical political neutrality. Mahoning Matters reports that Bosa, Butker, Barkley, Tagovailoa, and Dart have taken public stances backing the 80-year-old president as the regular season approaches next month.
Four of the players have reportedly joined Trump's sports, fitness, and nutrition council. Dart made a public appearance at a Trump event in New York, drawing criticism for his decision but standing by his choice. Both acknowledge their political stance openly.
Bosa, Butker, Barkley, and Tagovailoa have accepted roles in President Trump's sports, fitness, and nutrition council. Star-Telegram notes this marks an unusual step for active NFL players to formally tie themselves to a presidential administration's advisory positions.
The appointments signal a shift in how some professional athletes view political engagement. Most NFL players typically avoid formal government roles or public political endorsements during their active careers.
Wide receiver Dart took a more visible route by appearing publicly at a Trump campaign event in New York. Sacramento Bee reports the appearance drew immediate backlash from some corners of the sports world and social media.
Despite the criticism, Dart defended his decision to attend. He doubled down on his support, telling critics he stands by his choice to publicly back the president ahead of the upcoming season.
Player political activism remains rare in the NFL. Bellingham Herald explains that most athletes avoid formal endorsements or advisory roles to focus on football and avoid dividing locker rooms.
These five players represent an exception. The Olympian notes that their willingness to publicly align with a president represents a notable moment in modern NFL history, where individual politics typically stay private.
Publishers
12
Articles
11
Reach
12