The Philadelphia Eagles are set to turn down a traditional White House visit after their Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, sources have revealed. The decision marks a continuation of tensions between the team and President Donald Trump, who previously clashed with Eagles players over their stance on social justice issues.
A team-wide decision to decline
According to a well-placed insider, discussions between players and team executives resulted in a “massive no” when asked whether they would accept an invitation to Washington. “We focus on the game for now, but if we win the Super Bowl, we wouldn’t go to the White House,” a member of the ownership group stated.
A current player echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the team’s commitment to its values. “We represent a city and a state that is pushing for equal rights, respect, and values that respect every human being,” he said. “We won’t forget what happened and the criticism we received for taking a stand against racism.”
A history of snubbing Trump
The Eagles famously rejected a White House visit in 2018 after winning their first Super Bowl, citing Trump’s comments on NFL players who took a knee during the national anthem. Trump uninvited the team at the time, stating, “They disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem.”
Despite only four players remaining from that championship team—Jake Elliott, Rick Lovato, Brandon Graham, and Lane Johnson—the sentiment among the roster remains the same. Owner Jeff Lurie, a known critic of Trump, has also remained tight-lipped about a potential visit, only stating, “I just want to win on Sunday.”
Kansas City embraces Trump
While the Eagles stand firm in their rejection, the Kansas City Chiefs appear to be on friendlier terms with the Trump administration. Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker publicly endorsed Trump’s campaign last fall, and team owner Clark Hunt’s wife, Tavia, has voiced her support for the former president on social media.
Super Bowl champions traditionally receive VIP treatment at the White House weeks after their win, but with the Eagles standing firm, another awkward public fallout with Trump may be on the horizon.
