Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley addressed criticism after being seen golfing and spending time with former President Donald Trump at his Bedminster, New Jersey golf course a day before the Eagles’ White House visit to celebrate their Super Bowl LIX win. Barkley defended his actions on social media, emphasizing his respect for the office of the presidency over political affiliations and noting past interactions with other presidents, including golfing with former President Obama. He criticized those politicizing the encounter and urged people to stop the backlash.
The golf outing also involved a photo with Trump’s grandson, Theodore Kushner. While Barkley participated in the visit, some Eagles players, including quarterback Jalen Hurts, missed the event citing scheduling conflicts. Hurts had previously been noncommittal about attending when asked during the TIME100 Gala.