Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has seen a surge in the sales of his jersey, making it one of the top-selling jerseys in the NFL. This increase in popularity comes in the wake of his recent commencement speech, which garnered significant attention and sparked controversy.
Butker’s red Nike No. 7 jersey has become the top-selling item for Chiefs players on the NFL’s online shop. It has surpassed the popularity of jerseys worn by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce. Currently priced at $129.99, Butker’s jersey is listed as one of the top sellers on the website.
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Fanatics, the only authorized retailer of NFL merchandise, was contacted by CBS News to obtain more details about the sales of jerseys.
The sales have seen a notable rise following the graduation speech delivered by the three-time Super Bowl champion at Benedictine College. In his speech, he expressed his opinion that women should prioritize being homemakers and voiced his disapproval of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, as well as criticizing President Joe Biden and abortion. These comments sparked significant backlash, leading to an online petition urging the Chiefs to terminate his contract, garnering over 186,000 signatures. The NFL has distanced itself from the kicker’s remarks.
According to Jonathan Beane, the NFL’s senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, Harrison Butker delivered a speech in his personal capacity. Beane clarified that Butker’s views do not represent the NFL as an organization. Beane emphasized that the NFL remains unwavering in its dedication to inclusion, as it believes that this commitment only enhances the strength of the league.
Amid the backlash, Butker found solace in the support of Chiefs owner Clark Hunt’s wife, Tavia, and daughter, Gracie, who took to social media to defend him. Tavia Hunt, a devoted stay-at-home mom, passionately stood up for him in a heartfelt post.
“I truly believe that discovering a life partner who loves and respects you just as much as they love themselves, and building a family together, is one of the most precious gifts that life has to offer,” she expressed.
She added that affirming motherhood and praising one’s wife, while acknowledging the sacrifice and dedication required for motherhood, is not an act of bigotry.
Gracie Hunt, in an interview with Fox News, expressed her admiration for her mother and shared her deep respect for Harrison and his strong Christian faith.
