Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley said he was surprised to learn his name had been listed as a member of President Trump’s newly formed council on sports, fitness, and nutrition.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Aug. 4, Barkley addressed the announcement that followed Trump’s executive order establishing the council on July 31.
“A couple months ago, it was brought to my team about the council,” said Barkley, 28, after Eagles training camp. “So I’m not really too familiar with it.”
He continued, “I felt like I am going to be super busy, so me and my family thought it would probably be in my best interest to not accept that. I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned. I’m assuming it’s something great, so I appreciate it but was a little shocked when my name was mentioned.”
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Barkley had previously spent time with President Trump at his Bedminster, New Jersey golf club in April.
The athlete’s name appeared on the official council roster alongside other NFL figures such as Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, retired Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor, and Colts offensive guard Cody Campbell.
Others named to the council include LIV golfer Bryson DeChambeau, LPGA star Nelly Korda, golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Annika Sörenstam, as well as NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Former hockey greats Wayne Gretzky and Matthew Tkachuk, MLB Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera, and former WWE wrestler Paul “Triple H” Levesque are also part of the group.
According to a White House press release, the council aims to launch school-based programs to “reward excellence in physical education and support the development of a Presidential Fitness Award.” It will also contribute to broader college athletics reforms, including addressing the transfer portal and barring biological men from competing in women’s sports.
Barkley has faced criticism for his interactions with Trump even prior to the council’s creation. After being photographed golfing with Trump and boarding Air Force One in April, he addressed backlash on social media.
“Lol some people are really upset cause I played golf and flew to the White House with the PRESIDENT,” he posted. “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!”
Later that day, Trump publicly praised Barkley during a White House event celebrating the Eagles’ 2025 Super Bowl victory. While Barkley and others attended, several key players, including MVP quarterback Jalen Hurts, chose not to participate.
