Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has come to the defense of kicker Harrison Butker, who has faced criticism following his commencement speech at a Catholic college.
Travis Kelce has joined the chorus of Kansas City Chiefs players expressing support for their teammate, Harrison Butker, who has been under fire for comments he made in a commencement speech earlier this month.
Speaking on the latest episode of the "New Heights" podcast with his brother, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, Travis Kelce defended Butker's character despite disagreeing with his views.
Kelce has played alongside Butker for over seven years and has nothing but praise for his teammate. He described Butker as a "great person" and a "great teammate" who treats everyone with respect and kindness.
Butker's commencement speech at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, on May 11 drew criticism for his references to various topics, including abortion and the LGBTQ community. He also spoke about the importance of women being homemakers.
Kelce acknowledged his disagreement with Butker's views, but emphasized that he would not judge him based on his religious beliefs. "I can't say I agree with the majority of it or just about any of it, outside of just him loving his family and his kids," Kelce said.
Kelce grew up with two working parents and appreciates the importance of family. He praised his parents for providing for their family and creating a loving home environment. While he believes that everyone's upbringing may differ, he expressed gratitude for his parents' sacrifices.
Jason Kelce also spoke out in support of Butker, highlighting the importance of family dynamics. He believes that parents should prioritize their children and that the foundation of families needs to be strengthened.
The Chiefs have faced criticism for their association with Butker following his speech. However, Travis Kelce's defense of his teammate shows that the players stand behind him despite their differing beliefs.
Kelce's comments come after Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes also defended Butker's character, praising him as a "great teammate" and a "great friend."
The controversy surrounding Butker's speech has highlighted the complex issue of balancing personal beliefs with professional obligations. While some have criticized Butker's views, others have defended his right to express his opinions.
As the Chiefs prepare for the upcoming season, it remains to be seen whether Butker's speech will continue to be a source of controversy. However, the support he has received from his teammates suggests that he has the backing of the team despite the criticism he has faced.
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