Several NFL teams faced scrutiny after skipping pre-game tributes to Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University last week. While the New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Dallas Cowboys observed moments of silence for Kirk before their games, the Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings did not acknowledge his passing.
Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, was killed during an outdoor gathering on Wednesday. His alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been arrested and is expected to face aggravated murder charges. Meanwhile, some teams highlighted their support for other causes, with Jon Root noting that five franchises honored George Floyd in previous tributes. The debate over which teams recognized Kirk’s legacy intensified as fans voiced criticism toward those who omitted any acknowledgment.