Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has received support from teammate Chris Jones and former wide receiver Cole Beasley following controversy over his commencement speech.
Harrison Butker, the Kansas City Chiefs' kicker, has found support from some of his peers despite facing criticism for his commencement speech at Benedictine College.
Butker's address, which centered around Christian values, drew negative reactions from some critics who perceived it as divisive and inappropriate for a public university. However, he has received backing from those within the NFL community, including defensive tackle Chris Jones and former NFL wide receiver Cole Beasley.
Jones took to X to express his support for Butker, writing, "I love you @buttkicker7! My brotha," in response to a petition demanding the Chiefs release the kicker. When asked if he would delete the post, Jones replied, "Negative."
Beasley, who retired from the NFL last season, also voiced his support for Butker, stating, "I'm with (Butker)."
Butker has received support from outside the Chiefs organization as well. Gracie Hunt, the daughter of Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt, appeared on "Fox & Friends" and expressed her understanding of Butker's perspective.
"I really respect Harrison and his Christian faith and what he's accomplished on and off the field," she said.
Butker's comments have sparked a conversation about religion in public life and the role of traditional morality in a changing society. While some view his speech as a personal expression of faith, others believe it was inappropriate for a representative of the NFL to deliver a message that could be seen as exclusionary.
The NFL has not commented on Butker's speech, and it remains unclear whether the league will take any action. However, the support shown by Jones and Beasley suggests that Butker has allies within the NFL community who respect his right to express his beliefs.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it highlights the complex and often divisive nature of religious expression in today's society. Butker's speech has opened up a discussion about the role of faith in public discourse and the balance between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities.
Only time will tell the long-term impact of Butker's speech on his career and the NFL. However, the support he has received from some of his peers indicates that he is not alone in his convictions and that the debate over religion in public life is likely to continue for some time.
