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The Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on February 9 has been overshadowed by reports that the team will decline an invitation to visit President Donald Trump at the White House. The decision mirrors their stance in 2018 when they also opted out of the traditional visit following their Super Bowl LII win.
A report from the U.S. Sun claimed that discussions within the Eagles organization led to a firm decision against accepting an invitation. "A well-placed insider told The U.S. Sun that recent discussions between the players and the Eagles front office resulted in a 'massive no' when asked if they would accept an invitation to the nation's capital."
Despite this, the White House pushed back against the reports, stating that no invitation had been extended. A source told TMZ Sports, "While there's a rumor going around that the Eagles won't be visiting, President Trump hasn't even invited them yet. And maybe he won't end up doing it." This approach echoes 2018, when Trump rescinded the Eagles' invitation, stating, "They disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country."
The Eagles' decision has ignited debate, particularly among Trump supporters. Some have expressed outrage, with one social media user posting, "Eagles won't visit The White House? Oh cool. Pull all their funding. Every dime. If the NFL hates America then America needs to start hating the NFL." Others, however, applauded the team. Another user wrote, "BRAVO to the Philadelphia Eagles for declining Trump's invitation to the White House. The eagle is a widespread symbol of STRENGTH, POWER, FREEDOM, & WISDOM. These team members proudly held on to their self-respect & dignity!"
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recently reinforced the league's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, which Trump has opposed. Meanwhile, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts was asked about Trump's attendance at the Super Bowl and responded, "No ma'am." His restrained response contrasts with Chiefs player Travis Kelce, who described Trump's presence as a "great honor."
The Philadelphia Eagles have yet to make an official statement on their reported decision.
