Saquon Barkley clarifies position on President Trump’s Sports Council

Saquon Barkley was considered for a position on President Donald Trump’s revived Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, but ultimately did not accept the invitation. The former Penn State football star and current Philadelphia Eagles running back clarified his involvement with the council after being floated as a potential member last week.

“A couple months ago, it was brought to my team about the council,” Barkley said on Monday, as captured by ESPN Eagles reporter Tim McManus. “So I’m not really too familiar with it. 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.”

While supportive of its purpose, the former Nittany Lion added that he was surprised to see his name associated with the council last week.

“I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned,” he said. “I’m assuming it’s something great, so I appreciate it, but was a little shocked when my name was mentioned.”

Last Thursday, President Trump signed an executive order revitalizing the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. Originally formed under President Dwight Eisenhower, the council aims to ensure “American youth will have opportunities at the global, national, State, and local levels that emphasize the importance of an active lifestyle, good nutrition, American sports, and military readiness.”

The executive order directs the council to partner with professional athletes, sports organizations, and influential figures. The council, which can have up to 30 members, already includes prominent figures such as golfer Bryson DeChambeau, NFL stars Nick Bosa, Tua Tagovailoa, and Harrison Butker, and retired icons Lawrence Taylor, Jack Nicklaus, and Wayne Gretzky. President Trump named Barkley as a potential member during a press conference unveiling the council.

Barkley made headlines this spring after he played golf with the 47th president at his club in Bedminster, New Jersey. In a statement shortly after the visit, the Penn State football legend noted his decision was driven by respect for the office and criticized those who made it about politics. 

lol some people are really upset cause I played golfed and flew to the White House with the PRESIDENT. Maybe I just respect the office, not a hard concept to understand. Just golfed with Obama not too long ago…and look forward to finishing my round with Trump ! Now ya get out my…

— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) April 28, 2025

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