Eagles’ Saquon Barkley Rejects Trump Sports Council Appointment/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ NFL star Saquon Barkley has declined President Donald Trump’s invitation to join the revived Presidential Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. Barkley cited scheduling conflicts and surprise at the announcement. His name was listed among several high-profile athletes and sports figures.
Saquon Barkley Declines Trump Invitation Quick Looks
- Barkley declines invitation to Trump’s sports, fitness council
- Council revived alongside return of Presidential Fitness Test
- Barkley cited scheduling conflicts, says he was surprised
- Trump named Barkley among a star-studded list of invitees
- Other invitees include Mariano Rivera, Triple H, Bryson DeChambeau
- Barkley visited Trump this year but emphasized neutrality
- The Presidential Fitness Test was reintroduced after being phased out
- Barkley had 2,005 rushing yards last season with the Eagles
- Trump praised Barkley as “an incredible football player”
- Barkley responded to critics, stressing respect for the office
Deep Look: Saquon Barkley Politely Declines Trump’s Sports Council Invitation
PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley has declined an invitation to join President Donald Trump’s revamped Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, stating Monday that he and his family decided it wasn’t the right time to take on the role.
The running back’s name appeared on a publicized list of proposed council members, including top-tier athletes and figures such as golfer Bryson DeChambeau, LPGA star Nelly Korda, WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque, NFL legend Lawrence Taylor, and Yankees Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera.
However, Barkley clarified after Eagles practice that the invitation had already been turned down — weeks before the announcement.
“A couple months ago, it was brought to my team,” Barkley said. “I’m not really too familiar with it… I’m going to be super busy. Me and my family thought it would probably be of best interest to not accept that.”
Barkley added that he was surprised his name was included in the finalized list, although he appreciated the gesture.
Fitness Test Returns Under Trump Order
The invitation was part of Trump’s executive order last week that not only reconstituted the national council but also reinstated the Presidential Fitness Test, a once-prominent measure of physical health in American schools. The test, originally launched in 1966, included mile runs, push-ups, sit-ups, and stretches and was phased out under the Obama administration.
“This is a wonderful tradition, and we’re bringing it back,” Trump said.
The reimagined council was intended to tap into modern athletic role models and promote fitness awareness among youth. Barkley, whose 2,005 rushing yards last season ranked eighth-best in NFL history, was a natural choice — but his packed schedule and personal priorities meant declining the opportunity.
A Complicated Relationship with Politics
Despite rejecting the council seat, Barkley’s relationship with political figures — particularly Trump and former President Barack Obama — has drawn attention in recent months.
He has publicly golfed with both leaders, met with Trump at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, and even joined him aboard Air Force One and Marine One en route to a White House celebration for the Super Bowl-winning Eagles. Barkley attended the ceremony while other teammates, including quarterback Jalen Hurts, chose not to.
Trump, never one to shy away from commentary, praised Barkley effusively after the visit:
“He’s a great young guy and an incredible football player. Saquon had a season for the ages,” Trump said.
Still, Barkley drew backlash on social media for appearing alongside the Republican president. He addressed the criticism directly.
“Maybe I just respect the office,” Barkley posted on X. “Not a hard concept to understand.”
His remarks emphasized a neutral stance, seeking to honor the presidency without making political endorsements.
Barkley’s Focus: Football and Family
While Barkley’s on-field performance made him an ideal candidate for a national council on fitness, his decision highlights his current priorities: family and football. After his record-breaking debut season with the Eagles, Barkley is focused on helping the team defend their Super Bowl title and staying healthy for another dominant run.
Despite not joining the presidential council, Barkley’s influence on youth sports and athleticism remains significant. His charitable work, offseason camps, and commitment to excellence continue to set a powerful example without an official government role.
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