The Philadelphia Eagles ’ upcoming visit to the White House to celebrate their Super Bowl LIX victory has sparked conversation, as players are not required to attend. Owner Jeffrey Lurie and head coach Nick Sirianni have emphasized that participation is entirely optional, allowing players to decide for themselves. With quarterback Jalen Hurts among those weighing their options, all eyes are on who will choose to take part in the historic event.
Philadelphia Eagles maintain tradition of allowing players to choose
Jeffrey Lurie made it clear that the team culture is one of personal choice, stating, "Our culture is that these are optional things. If you want to enjoy this, come along and we'll have a great time, and if you don't, it is totally an optional thing."
This stance aligns with the Eagles’ past approach to White House visits. The organization has previously taken a neutral stance on political matters, ensuring that players feel no pressure to attend events they may not be comfortable with.
White House visit follows past controversy with Eagles and former President Donald Trump
The decision to make attendance optional comes after a complicated history between the Eagles and White House visits. Following their Super Bowl LII win in 2018, the Eagles’ scheduled visit was abruptly canceled when then-President Donald Trump rescinded the invitation amid controversy over national anthem protests.
This time, the invitation has been accepted, but the organization remains firm in its stance that the trip is strictly about celebration, not politics. Lurie reinforced this point by saying, "This is really just an invitation from the White House. That’s all this is, and we're not politicizing it in any way. Not for us."
Jalen Hurts and other players yet to confirm their attendance
One of the biggest questions remains whether star quarterback Jalen Hurts will attend. While no official word has been given, the option to decline leaves open the possibility that he, and potentially other teammates, may sit out the visit.
Head coach Nick Sirianni echoed Lurie’s sentiments, focusing on the celebratory nature of the event while respecting the players' personal decisions. "We’re just excited for the opportunity to celebrate, and we support whatever our players decide to do."
As the Eagles prepare for the visit, the team’s approach highlights the evolving nature of sports and politics. By leaving the decision up to individual players, the franchise allows for both tradition and personal choice to coexist.
Also Read: Donald Trump’s $1 million gamble: How he tried to lure NFL star Lawrence Taylor to the USFL
With the visit approaching, the focus remains on how the team will balance unity, personal beliefs, and the opportunity to be honored at the White House. Whether every player attends or not, the Philadelphia Eagles continue to stand by a culture of respect, choice, and celebration.
Philadelphia Eagles maintain tradition of allowing players to choose
Jeffrey Lurie made it clear that the team culture is one of personal choice, stating, "Our culture is that these are optional things. If you want to enjoy this, come along and we'll have a great time, and if you don't, it is totally an optional thing."
This stance aligns with the Eagles’ past approach to White House visits. The organization has previously taken a neutral stance on political matters, ensuring that players feel no pressure to attend events they may not be comfortable with.
A reporter suggested the Philadelphia Eagles "embracing" Donald Trump with a White House visit could cause fans to "take offense."
— OutKick (@Outkick) April 3, 2025
Owner Jeffrey Lurie shut that down very quickly. Details:https://t.co/ZpLx9b6VHW
White House visit follows past controversy with Eagles and former President Donald Trump
The decision to make attendance optional comes after a complicated history between the Eagles and White House visits. Following their Super Bowl LII win in 2018, the Eagles’ scheduled visit was abruptly canceled when then-President Donald Trump rescinded the invitation amid controversy over national anthem protests.
This time, the invitation has been accepted, but the organization remains firm in its stance that the trip is strictly about celebration, not politics. Lurie reinforced this point by saying, "This is really just an invitation from the White House. That’s all this is, and we're not politicizing it in any way. Not for us."
Jalen Hurts and other players yet to confirm their attendance
One of the biggest questions remains whether star quarterback Jalen Hurts will attend. While no official word has been given, the option to decline leaves open the possibility that he, and potentially other teammates, may sit out the visit.
Eagles to visit the White House on April 28 after their Super Bowl win. Jeffrey Lurie confirmed Nick Sirianni will remain head coach as the team aims for continued success this season. 🐱 #Eagles #SuperBowlChampions #NFL
— CuriousCats - US News (@CuriousCats_US) April 3, 2025
Sources: nbcsportsphiladelphiahttps://t.co/sZayMvOh5E
Head coach Nick Sirianni echoed Lurie’s sentiments, focusing on the celebratory nature of the event while respecting the players' personal decisions. "We’re just excited for the opportunity to celebrate, and we support whatever our players decide to do."
As the Eagles prepare for the visit, the team’s approach highlights the evolving nature of sports and politics. By leaving the decision up to individual players, the franchise allows for both tradition and personal choice to coexist.
Also Read: Donald Trump’s $1 million gamble: How he tried to lure NFL star Lawrence Taylor to the USFL
With the visit approaching, the focus remains on how the team will balance unity, personal beliefs, and the opportunity to be honored at the White House. Whether every player attends or not, the Philadelphia Eagles continue to stand by a culture of respect, choice, and celebration.
You may also like
Eminem's daughter Hailie Jade gives birth to first child and reveals sweet nod to rapper
Juventus star's agent speaks out amid $74M Liverpool and Man City transfer links
Fury as Conservative politicians accused of 'sexism and racism' over WhatsApp messages
I tried these new AA batteries with USB and now I'm £1,960 better off - and lazier
Rugby Premier League to start on June 1 with six teams, 30 foreign players
