On April 28, 2025, the Philadelphia Eagles were honored at the White House by President Donald Trump following their Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. The ceremony, held on the South Lawn, marked a major moment of recognition for the team—and a full-circle moment after their 2018 visit was famously canceled during Trump’s first term amid controversies over national anthem protests.
President Trump praised the Eagles as an “incredible group of champions,” highlighting the grit, teamwork, and determination that led them to victory. He specifically commended quarterback Jalen Hurts, who was named Super Bowl MVP, for his leadership and stellar performance throughout the season. Although Hurts was unable to attend the event due to scheduling conflicts, Trump made a point to honor him during his remarks.
? NOW: The Philadelphia Eagles present President Trump with a 47 jersey and helmet at the White House
Just WEEKS ago, the fake news media said the Eagles were SNUBBING Trump and refusing to go to the White House
Looks like they lied — AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/xxjwqlwz19
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) April 28, 2025
Notably, fewer than half of the team’s roster attended the ceremony. High-profile absences included wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, along with several key players from the Eagles’ defense. Nevertheless, the celebration was energetic, featuring speeches from head coach Nick Sirianni, team owner Jeffrey Lurie, and veteran tackle Lane Johnson, who emphasized the team’s resilience and strong bond throughout the season.
During the event, President Trump weighed in on the NFL’s ongoing discussions about banning the Eagles’ signature “tush push” play—a powerful quarterback sneak tactic that had been a major part of their success. Trump dismissed the idea of banning the play, calling it “exciting, different, and good for the game.”
The ceremony also included a lighter moment when Trump playfully referenced pop singer Taylor Swift, a known supporter of the Chiefs and tight end Travis Kelce. Alluding to the Eagles’ victory over the Chiefs, Trump joked, “How did that work out?”—prompting laughter from the audience.
? LMAO! President Trump just clowned on Taylor Swift for getting BOOED at the Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles standing behind him
“I was there along with Taylor Swift — how did that work out?” ?? pic.twitter.com/6Q6ljaXn6Q
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) April 28, 2025
Running back Saquon Barkley, who had recently signed with the Eagles, was in attendance and even joined President Trump for a round of golf the day before the ceremony. Responding to criticism over his appearance with the president, Barkley made it clear on social media that he respects the office of the presidency regardless of political affiliation, emphasizing that the event was about celebrating the team’s accomplishments, not 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
The Eagles’ visit to the White House was marked by a spirit of celebration and tradition, focusing squarely on honoring the athletes’ achievements and preserving the longstanding custom of championship teams visiting the President of the United States.