Donald Trump has tried to build a reputation with the NFL ever since he retook office in January. He has made multiple appearances at games/with teams, he constantly shares his opinion on hot button topics, and now he is trying to hire some of their players.
“It’s A No From Me” Donald Trump Turned Down By NFL Star For Massive Job Opportunity (Report)
[Subscription Customers Only] Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; U.S. President Donald Trump on the pitch during the trophy presentation after the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amanda Perobelli-Reuters via Imagn Images
[Subscription Customers Only] Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; U.S. President Donald Trump on the pitch during the trophy presentation after the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amanda Perobelli-Reuters via Imagn Images
Saquon Barkley, the Philadelphia Eagles running back, confirmed Monday that he won’t be joining the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, despite Donald Trump’s announcement last week:
President Trump issued an executive order to restore the previously utilized fitness assessment, bringing back standardized physical evaluations that schools will administer to gauge students’ athletic capabilities. During the White House announcement, Trump appeared alongside golfer Bryson DeChambeau, NFL kicker Harrison Butker, and WWE CCO Triple H.
Though absent from the Oval Office ceremony, Trump also declared that NFL players Tua Tagovailoa, Nick Bosa, Barkley, and Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor would join the council. Nevertheless, Barkley revealed Monday that he was “shocked” to discover his inclusion after having previously turned down the opportunity.
Following Eagles practice on Monday, Barkley addressed reporters about his supposed appointment and verified that Trump had made an error. “A couple months ago, it was brought to my team about the council,” he explained to the media.
“So I’m not really too familiar with it. I felt like I was going to be super busy. So, me and my family probably thought it would be in the best interest to not accept that.
Donald Trump was visited by Barkley before the rest of the Philadelphia Eagles were present at the White House© Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP
Donald Trump was visited by Barkley before the rest of the Philadelphia Eagles were present at the White House © Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP
Although Barkley turned down the invitation, he maintains a cordial relationship with President Trump. Even though several of his teammates chose to skip the Eagles’ White House visit, Barkley attended and also spent time with Trump at his Bedminster, New Jersey golf course.
The Eagles received recognition at the White House following their Super Bowl LIX victory, but Barkley faced criticism from fans after his private meeting with Trump. The running back also traveled on Air Force One prior to the White House ceremony, after his golf session.
Barkley stood by his decisions on social media when responding to critics. “Lol some people are really upset cause I played golfed and flew to the White House with the PRESIDENT,” he posted.
Former President Donald J. Trump receives a golden ‘Make America Great Again,’ baseball cap from a young supporter (not pictured) as he walks the catwalk at the end of his rally at Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, Wis. on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Gabi Broekema/USA TODAY NETWORK- Wisconsin
Former President Donald J. Trump receives a golden ‘Make America Great Again,’ baseball cap from a young supporter (not pictured) as he walks the catwalk at the end of his rally at Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, Wis. on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Gabi Broekema/USA TODAY NETWORK- Wisconsin
Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; U.S. President Donald Trump on stage during the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea FC at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; U.S. President Donald Trump on stage during the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea FC at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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