Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker reaffirmed the statements he made during a recent college commencement speech when he spoke to reporters on Wednesday.
Butker faced criticism for his remarks at Benedictine College, where he encouraged women to embrace the term “homemaker” and expressed disapproval of President Joe Biden’s position on abortion while being a practicing Catholic. He also received pointed comments from Serena Williams during the ESPY Awards in July.
Nonetheless, Butker remains resolute.
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Jul 26, 2024; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (7) enters the field before training camp at Missouri Western State University. (Denny Medley/USA Today Sports)
“I stand by my words,” he stated. “I regard the offseason as a five-month window where I can represent myself as Harrison Butker, a devoted Catholic. When the season starts, I shift my focus back to football, aiming not to be a distraction for the Chiefs.”
Butker mentioned he has discussed his speech with several teammates.
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Jul 26, 2024; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (7) kicks a field goal as punter Matt Araiza (49) holds during training camp at Missouri Western State University. (Denny Medley/USA Today Sports)
“I feel like our team is really united,” he added. “Since that speech, there have been numerous discussions in the locker room, fostering connections and understanding among teammates. It’s been inspiring to witness, highlighting the unique aspect of sports and football.
“In football, we have rosters of 50 to 100 individuals with diverse beliefs, all working together towards a common goal. With different personalities and backgrounds, we strive to comprehend each other, recognizing that ultimately, we share one aim: to win football games.”
Place kicker Harrison Butker #7 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates a successful field goal during the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 26, 2023. The Chiefs won 31-17. (Candice Ward/Getty Images)
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Butker and the Chiefs have officially announced a four-year contract extension, making Butker the highest-paid kicker in NFL history.
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