Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley recently revealed that he declined an invitation to serve on President Donald Trump’s council on sports, fitness, and nutrition.
Barkley stated that the offer had been presented to his team a few months ago, but after discussing it with his family, they decided it was best for him not to accept the role. He cited his busy schedule as a key factor and expressed surprise that his name was publicly associated with the council.
Barkley Declines Council Role, Cites Commitments Over Politics Amid Surprise Announcements
Barkley admitted he was unaware that his name had been officially included as a council member until it was announced. “I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned,” he said. While he appreciated the recognition and acknowledged the council’s positive intentions, he emphasized that the decision to decline was made out of practicality and prior commitments rather than politics.
Saquon Barkley (NFL)The council, reestablished by President Trump through an executive order on July 31, aims to promote fitness and health among American youth. Its duties include advising the president on physical education programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and reviving initiatives like the Presidential Fitness Test. The council can include up to 30 members and features notable figures from various sports disciplines.
Council Includes Top Sports Figures; Barkley Maintains Bipartisan Ties Through Personal Relationships
Alongside Barkley, other names announced by Trump for the council included NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, football players Nick Bosa, Tua Tagovailoa, and Harrison Butker, Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor, golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Bryson DeChambeau, and hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. Despite Barkley’s decision not to participate, the council still boasts an influential roster of athletes and sports executives.
Barkley’s interactions with political figures have spanned party lines. Before the Eagles’ White House visit in April to celebrate their Super Bowl LIX win, Barkley played golf with Trump and even traveled with him via Marine One.
He also previously played golf with former President Barack Obama, a fact he mentioned in response to online criticism for spending time with Trump. Barkley’s actions suggest a focus on relationships and personal connections rather than political alignment.
