NFL player Saquon Barkley defied the custom of athletes skipping presidential ceremonies because of political disagreements by bravely standing with President Trump before the Eagles’ White House visit. Regardless of his political views, the New York Giants running back showed respect for the position by accompanying Trump to Washington, D.C., and taking pictures with him at his golf club in New Jersey. In the meantime, it remains unclear which Eagles players will attend the White House for their victory celebration.
Barkley Chooses Respect Over Politics
Saquon Barkley, the celebrated running back for the New York Giants, spent time with President Donald Trump at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster in New Jersey just one day before the Philadelphia Eagles’ scheduled White House visit. The NFL star reportedly played golf with the President and later traveled with him to Washington, D.C., demonstrating a willingness to engage respectfully with the nation’s leader regardless of potential backlash.
Philadelphia Eagles White House visit:
– the left will express disappointment with the players who show up (but they will watch every game next season)
– the right will express disappointment with the players who don't show up (but they will watch every game next season)
— Kevin Kinkead (@Kevin_Kinkead) April 28, 2025
When faced with criticism for his interaction with Trump, Barkley responded by emphasizing his respect for the office of the president rather than making a political statement. He even noted that he has previously golfed with former President Barack Obama, further clarifying that his interactions with presidents transcend partisan politics.
Eagles Face White House Decision
The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl triumph, are scheduled to visit the White House for the traditional championship celebration. However, speculation has intensified that some players may choose to skip the ceremony due to political differences with the administration, continuing a trend seen among professional athletes in recent years that has been marked by controversy.
BREAKING: Karoline Leavitt just debunked the fake news!
The Philadelphia Eagles will be visiting the White House on April 28th after winning the Super Bowl. Remember how the media ran story after story about the team allegedly turning down the offer?
Fake news loses AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/pRJo8zDzDN
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) March 11, 2025
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has remained notably silent on whether he will attend the White House event, fueling further speculation about potential absences. According to reports, Hurts typically allows his publicist to handle such politically sensitive situations, avoiding direct statements that could alienate fans or teammates with different political viewpoints.
Trump Welcomes Athletes Despite Controversy
President Trump appeared to enjoy Barkley’s company, with footage showing the two walking together and sharing light-hearted moments. In one video, Trump joked about racing the lightning-fast running back, which generated laughter from those present and demonstrated the positive rapport between the President and the NFL star.
The ongoing debate about athletes visiting the White House highlights the increasing intersection of sports and politics in American culture. Barkley’s willingness to engage with Trump stands in contrast to numerous professional athletes who have publicly refused White House invitations, placing principle above traditional honors and reflecting the deeply divided nature of today’s political landscape.
Barkley’s actions serve as a reminder that respecting the office of the presidency remains an essential American value that can transcend partisan divisions. While some Eagles players may choose to skip their White House celebration, Barkley’s approach demonstrates that athletes can engage respectfully with national leaders while maintaining their personal beliefs and values.
Sources:
https://dailycaller.com/2025/04/27/saquon-barkley-jalen-hurts-donald-trump-philadelphia-eagles/