Saquon Barkley says no to Trump
The Eagles running back says he has declined Donald Trump’s invitation to join a presidential council on sports, fitness and nutrition
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to revive the Presidential Fitness Test in public schools, a program once iconic in American education.
As part of the initiative, Trump aimed to enlist legendary figures from major U.S. sports leagues to serve on a council on sports, fitness and nutrition. But one of the NFL’s most recent champions has declined the offer.
Saquon Barkley, star running back for the Philadelphia Eagles and Super Bowl LIX MVP, revealed during training camp that he opted not to join the council, citing time constraints and a desire to stay focused on football.
“I am going to be super busy”
“A couple months ago, it was brought to my team about the council. So I’m not really too familiar with it,” Barkley said after Monday’s practice, per ESPN.
“I felt like I am going to be super busy, so me and my family thought it would probably be of best interest to not accept that.
“I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned. I’m assuming it’s something great, so I appreciate it but was a little shocked when my name was mentioned.”
Who is on Trump’s council?
Trump’s council includes several current and former NFL players. Harrison Butker (Chiefs), Nick Bosa (49ers) and Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins) have been named, together with retired legends Lawrence Taylor - a Hall of Famer who played for the Giants - and former Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.
Barkley has enjoyed an amicable relationship with Trump. The two played golf together earlier this year, ahead of the Eagles’ visit to the White House to celebrate their Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Barkley joined Trump at his Bedminster golf club and later flew with him aboard Air Force One and Marine One to Washington, D.C.
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