Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s commencement speech stirred up both applause and criticism. In his speech, Butker called on female graduates to embrace their vocation as a homemaker, criticized the LGBTQ+ community, and targeted President Biden and his stance on abortion.
In response to Butker’s speech, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell underscored the importance of freedom of speech in the US. He asserted that the diversity of beliefs and thoughts among the NFL’s 3,000 players is treasured and contributes to the betterment of society.
Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, echoed Goodell’s sentiments. He highlighted the beauty of the locker room as a place for discussion, growth, and self-decision.
Expressing a similar viewpoint, Chiefs’ coach Andy Reid said: “Everybody’s got their own opinion, and that’s what’s so great about this country. You can share those things, and you can work through it.”
Following Butker’s speech, the sales of his jersey on NFL Shop saw a significant spike.