On may 1, 2025, a dozen Philadelphia Eagles players, including Super Bowl MVP quarterback Jalen Hurts, opted to skip the team’s White House visit with President Donald Trump following their Super Bowl victory. Other notable absentees were wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, defensive linemen Jordan Davis and Brandon Graham, and cornerback Darius Slay. The White House attributed their absence to “scheduling conflicts,” while Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie emphasized that attendance was voluntary, allowing players to choose whether to participate. (A Dozen Philadelphia Eagles Players Skip White House Visit with Donald Trump)
Hurts had previously hinted at his absence during the TIME 100 Gala but had not confirmed it publicly. His decision to skip the visit sparked widespread attention and debate, with many interpreting it as a subtle political statement against Trump. Critics and supporters alike viewed Hurts’ absence as a form of quiet protest, drawing comparisons to Michelle Obama’s decision to skip Trump’s inauguration. (A Dozen Philadelphia Eagles Players Skip White House Visit with Donald Trump, No One Is Buying Super Bowl MVP’s Excuse for Snubbing Trump)
In contrast, running back Saquon Barkley attended the White House event and defended his participation after being seen golfing with Trump at his Bedminster, New Jersey golf course the day before. Barkley emphasized his respect for the office of the presidency, stating that he had also recently played golf with former President Obama. He criticized those politicizing the encounter and urged people to stop the backlash. (Saquon Barkley fires back at critics over Trump hangout: ‘Not a hard concept’)
During the White House ceremony, President Trump praised Barkley, highlighting his athleticism and making a pointed comment referencing Taylor Swift and the Kansas City Chiefs, further intertwining sports and politics in the public eye. (A Dozen Philadelphia Eagles Players Skip White House Visit with Donald Trump)
The Eagles’ visit to the White House marked their first since their 2018 Super Bowl victory. That planned visit had been canceled by Trump due to anticipated low attendance, as fewer than 10 players had committed to attending. The 2025 visit, however, saw a larger turnout, with many players choosing to attend, while others, like Hurts, opted out. (White House cancels Philadelphia Eagles’ visit, Trump cancels Eagles’ White House celebration on eve of visit after fewer than 10 players planned to attend, Donald Trump praises ‘terrific’ Jalen Hurts despite Eagles star skipping out on team’s White House visit)
This event underscores the ongoing intersection of sports and politics, highlighting how athletes use their platforms to express personal beliefs and navigate complex political landscapes. The differing responses from Hurts and Barkley reflect the varied approaches athletes take in addressing political issues, from silent protest to public defense of their actions. (No One Is Buying Super Bowl MVP’s Excuse for Snubbing Trump)
