Kansas City Chiefs' quarterback and head coach Andy Reid have voiced their support for kicker Harrison Butker, who has been facing heavy criticism following a contentious graduation speech.
- May 24, 2024
AceShowbiz - Kansas City Chiefs' star quarterback Patrick Mahomes recently defended his teammate, kicker Harrison Butker, who has come under significant scrutiny for a controversial commencement address he delivered at Benedictine College, a Catholic liberal arts school in Atchison, Kansas. In his speech, Butker criticized President Joe Biden and talked about various politicized topics, touching on issues such as abortion, IVF, and Pride month.
Mahomes explained his support for Butker's character while distancing himself from the content of Butker's remarks. "I know Harrison. I've known Harrison for seven years and I judge him by the character that he shows every single day and that's a good person," Mahomes told reporters. "That's someone who cares about the people around him, cares about his family, and wants to make a good impact on society."
Butker's comments sparked a strong reaction online, with former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn and LGBTQ+ organizations among the critics. The Chiefs, however, have been supportive.
Head coach Andy Reid remarked, "We're a microcosm of life here. We're from different areas, different religions, different races. We all get along. We all respect each other's opinions. And not necessarily do we go by those, but we respect everybody to have a voice."
Butker's speech also addressed women graduates, urging them to prioritize marriage and motherhood over career aspirations, a viewpoint that many found outdated and misogynistic. "I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you," he said.
The NFL issued a statement clarifying that Butker's views do not reflect those of the organization. "Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity," said Jonathan Beane, the league's chief diversity and inclusion officer. "His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger."
Despite the controversy, Butker's jersey sales surged following the graduation. Mahomes addressed the situation, noting the diversity of perspectives within an NFL team.
"When you're in the locker room, there's a lot of people from a lot of different areas of life," Mahomes said. "There's certain things that he said I don't necessarily agree with but I understand the person that he is and he's trying to do whatever he can to lead people in the right direction."
As the Chiefs prepare for the upcoming NFL season, Mahomes emphasized the importance of unity. "But at the end of the day, we're going to come together as a team, and I think that'll help out as eliminating those distractions outside of the building, as well," he concluded.
