
Detroit Lions protest stance, Colts silence controversy, Bengals social justice actions, Ravens moment of silence debate, Vikings honor policy changes
5 NFL teams chose not to honor Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence today:
– Detroit Lions
– Indianapolis Colts
– Cincinnati Bengals
– Baltimore Ravens
– Minnesota VikingsEvery one of these teams honored George Floyd back in 2020…
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— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) September 15, 2025
NFL Teams and Their Moments of Silence: A Comparison of Responses
In a recent tweet by Jon Root, it was highlighted that five NFL teams chose not to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence. The teams in question were the Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings. This decision sparked discussions and comparisons to the actions of these teams back in 2020, when they collectively chose to honor George Floyd, a victim of police brutality, with moments of silence. This article delves into the broader implications of these decisions, the role of sports in social issues, and the various responses from fans and commentators.
The Decision Not to Honor Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk, a prominent figure in conservative circles, has been a polarizing personality. His viewpoints on various social and political issues have garnered both fervent support and vocal opposition. The decision by the five NFL teams to not honor him with a moment of silence could be interpreted in several ways.
- Political Polarization: The refusal to recognize Kirk highlights the deep political divides in contemporary society. Many fans and players hold differing beliefs, and the NFL, like many sports leagues, is a microcosm of this broader societal issue.
- Focus on Social Justice: In contrast to the 2020 moment of silence for George Floyd, which was a response to a significant movement advocating for racial justice and police reform, the decision not to honor Kirk may suggest a reluctance to engage with the current political landscape, particularly with regards to right-wing figures.
The 2020 Moment of Silence for George Floyd
The NFL’s decision to honor George Floyd in 2020 marked a pivotal moment in the league’s history. The tragic death of Floyd spurred nationwide protests and calls for systemic change regarding racial equality and police accountability. The league’s response included:
- Acknowledgment of Racial Injustice: Teams and players took a stand against racism, demonstrating a commitment to social justice. This was a significant shift for the NFL, which had previously faced criticism for its handling of player protests during the national anthem.
- Community Engagement: Many teams engaged in community outreach programs aimed at promoting social justice and equality, further solidifying their commitment to the cause.
Comparing the Responses
The juxtaposition of these two moments—honoring George Floyd in 2020 and the choice not to honor Charlie Kirk in 2025—raises questions about the NFL’s stance on social issues and how it navigates political landscapes:
- Team Policies and Fan Reactions: The decision not to honor Kirk was met with mixed reactions from fans. Supporters of Kirk expressed disappointment and frustration, while many others applauded the teams for their decision. This highlights the challenge that sports teams face in balancing the beliefs of their fan bases with their own values.
- The Role of the NFL: The NFL has historically been a platform for social change, but the decision-making processes behind actions like moments of silence can be complex. Teams must consider the impact of their actions on their brand, their players, and their communities.
The Bigger Picture: Sports and Social Issues
The intersection of sports and social issues is not new, but it has gained prominence in recent years. The NFL, like many professional sports leagues, has become a stage for broader societal debates:
- Athlete Activism: Players have increasingly used their platforms to advocate for social change. This trend can be traced back to figures like Colin Kaepernick, who kneeled during the national anthem to protest racial injustice. The responses from teams and leagues have varied, reflecting the complexities of navigating controversial social issues.
- Fan Engagement: Fans are becoming more vocal about their beliefs and expectations regarding their favorite teams. This engagement has led to heightened scrutiny of teams’ actions and decisions, as seen in the contrasting responses to moments of silence for different figures.
Conclusion: The Future of Social Issues in the NFL
As the NFL continues to navigate the complex landscape of social issues and political polarization, the decisions made by teams will likely remain a topic of discussion. The refusal to honor Charlie Kirk by five NFL teams raises important questions about the league’s future engagement with social justice issues and political figures.
The comparison to the 2020 moment of silence for George Floyd serves as a reminder of the power of sports to influence societal change, as well as the challenges that come with that responsibility. As fans, players, and teams continue to engage in these discussions, the NFL’s role in addressing social issues will undoubtedly evolve, shaping the future of the league and its relationship with its community.
In conclusion, the decisions made by NFL teams regarding moments of silence serve as a reflection of the current state of societal values and the ongoing dialogue surrounding political and social justice issues. As the league moves forward, it will be crucial for teams to find a balance that honors their diverse fanbase while remaining true to their values and commitments to social justice.

5 NFL Teams Snub Charlie Kirk: A Silent Protest?
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5 NFL teams chose not to honor Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence today:
– Detroit Lions
– Indianapolis Colts
– Cincinnati Bengals
– Baltimore Ravens
– Minnesota VikingsEvery one of these teams honored George Floyd back in 2020…
— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) September 15, 2025
5 NFL Teams Chose Not to Honor Charlie Kirk with a Moment of Silence Today:
In an interesting turn of events during the NFL season, five NFL teams made headlines by opting not to honor Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence. These teams include the Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings. This decision has sparked a lot of discussions among fans, analysts, and commentators alike.
Understanding the Context of the Moment of Silence
Moments of silence in sports have become a way to honor significant individuals or events, often reflecting a team’s values or societal issues. In 2020, during a time of heightened social awareness, these same teams took a moment to honor George Floyd, whose tragic death ignited protests and conversations about racial injustice across the nation. It’s fascinating to see how the narrative has shifted and how teams choose to commemorate different figures.
The Significance of Not Honoring Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk is a notable conservative activist and the founder of Turning Point USA. The decision by these five NFL teams not to honor him has raised eyebrows and led to a flurry of discussions on social media and sports talk shows. Some fans argue that this reflects a broader political stance taken by the leagues and teams, while others see it as a simple choice based on differing values and priorities.
Fan Reactions and Discussions
Reactions from fans have been mixed, to say the least. Some fans support the teams’ decision, feeling that honoring Charlie Kirk doesn’t align with their views or the values they believe the NFL should represent. Others feel that any individual deserving of recognition should be honored, regardless of political affiliations. This situation exemplifies the deep divide in opinions today, highlighting how sports and politics are increasingly intertwined.
Comparing the 2020 Honor for George Floyd
When the NFL teams chose to honor George Floyd back in 2020, it was a significant moment that resonated with many fans and players alike. The league took a stand against racial injustice, fostering a sense of unity and support for the Black lives Matter movement. In contrast, the decision not to honor Charlie Kirk seems to indicate a shift in how teams approach political figures and the implications of those honors.
The Broader Implications for the NFL
This incident not only highlights the ongoing discussions about race, politics, and social justice but also raises questions about the role of sports teams in these conversations. Should NFL teams take sides or stay neutral? Can they honor individuals who may polarize their fan base? These questions are crucial as we navigate the complex landscape of sports and social issues.
What This Means for Future Honors
As fans and analysts reflect on this decision, it opens the door for further discussions about who deserves recognition in the sports world. It may lead to more teams considering the implications of their honors and who they choose to recognize. This could also influence how future moments of silence are handled in the NFL and other sports leagues, as they weigh the potential reactions from their fan base and the broader public.
Conclusion: A Reflection of Current Times
Ultimately, the decision by the Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings not to honor Charlie Kirk reflects the complexities of our current societal landscape. As fans, we must engage in these discussions and consider the implications of our teams’ actions. In an era where sports often intersect with politics, it’s essential to recognize the power of these decisions and their impact on the broader community.
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