Kansas City Chiefs placekicker Harrison Butker is standing by his recent address at a Catholic college commencement ceremony, in which he made comments deemed “misogynistic” by some. Butker has since compared himself to a religious figure, all while receiving both criticism and support for his initial remarks.
Last Saturday, Butker delivered a speech at a private Catholic liberal arts college in Kansas. In his address, the 28-year-old encouraged men to “fight against cultural emasculation” and suggested that women should focus on being “homemakers” rather than pursuing careers. These comments sparked a wave of backlash and criticism from many who heard them.
However, on Friday night, Butker doubled down on his stance during another speech at a Regina Caeli Academy event in Nashville, Tennessee. He referenced the backlash he received and compared himself to a saint, saying, “I can’t help but tremble at the thought of the courage many saints have shown in their lives. Would I be so bold if the repercussion was what Daniel faced in being [met with a dangerous fate]?” He went on to say that any courage he has shown will likely only lead to minor suffering and some people not liking him.
Butker remains steadfast in his beliefs, comparing himself to a saint during his recent speech in Nashville.
Butker also expressed gratitude for the support he has received, acknowledging that his decision to make such remarks has been polarizing. He stands by his beliefs, stating that he is trying to please Jesus Christ rather than people, and that he does not regret his decision “at all.” The kicker’s comments have sparked a debate, with some praising his courage and freedom of religion, while others find his views outdated and offensive.
Butker, a married father of two and outspoken Catholic, shared his thoughts on his wife’s role, stating that her life truly began when she embraced her roles as a wife and mother after converting to his faith. These comments have not sat well with everyone, as a petition calling for his release from the Chiefs and the NFL has gained significant traction, with over 220,000 signatures as of Saturday morning.
Butker, a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Chiefs, has become one of the NFL’s top placekickers.
Despite the controversy, Butker has received support from his teammates. Travis Kelce, a fellow Chiefs player, spoke out in Butker’s defense, saying that while he disagrees with the majority of Butker’s views, he cherishes him as a teammate and respects how he treats others. Kelce emphasized his upbringing in a diverse community and expressed gratitude for his parents, who both provided for their family and created a loving home.
Another teammate, Jason Kelce, also voiced his disagreement with Butker’s comments but criticized the extreme backlash the kicker has received. Butker, a seventh-round pick from Georgia Tech in 2017, has established himself as one of the league’s top placekickers, breaking franchise records and helping the Chiefs win multiple Super Bowls.
While Butker’s comments have sparked intense debate, his talent on the field remains undeniable.
The placekicker’s decision to stand by his controversial remarks, even in the face of significant backlash, has become a polarizing topic, with some praising his courage and freedom of religion, while others continue to criticize his views as outdated and offensive.
