NFL breaks silence on Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s controversial comments about women

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker made headlines for his controversial comments about women during a graduation speech in mid-May. Butker faced massive backlash for his stances, and the NFL broke its silence on the issue with a decisive statement.

Harrison Butker has expressed controversial opinions in the past, but his commencement speech at Benedictine College in Kansas sparked major debate. Butker went on a tirade of his opinions, including one on the role of women in society.

Butker explained how female graduates heard “evil lies” about their college educations. He believes many of them will have successful professional careers, but others will be happier as housewives.

The NFL released a statement shortly after Butker’s comments:

“Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity,” Jonathan Beane, NFL senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, told People magazine in a written statement, according to Yahoo Sports. “His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in its commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.

The NFL doesn’t condone the Chiefs kicker’s comments, and his team probably doesn’t either.

Harrison Butker joined the Chiefs in 2017 when the team selected him in the seventh round of the draft. He had solid kicking production over his final seven seasons with the team. Butker contributed to the Chiefs’ three championships in five years. He is coming off a career year in 2023-24.

Butker made 100 percent of his field goals (first in the NFL), had 137 points (fourth) and made 94.3 percent of his field goals (eighth). Additionally, Butker’s longest kick was 60 yards (tied for fourth).

The coveted kicker must stay focused to help him achieve an incredible feat in 2024-25.

Chiefs eye treble in 2024-25

Kansas City is coming off a thrilling 25-22 victory in Super Bowl 58 against the San Francisco 49ers. The Chief’s championship solidified their status as the all-time great dynasty. KC has many important contributors, but the impact of star quarterback Patrick Mahomes cannot be understated.

The 28-year-old threw for 4,183 yards and 27 touchdowns and helped lead the Chiefs to victories throughout the playoffs. Head coach Andy Reid called Mahomes the key to his and Kansas City’s success after their Super Bowl victory in February.

Reid told reporters at the 2024 Scouting Combine that the way to succeed as a coach is to “find a good quarterback.” Reid has supreme confidence in Mahomes, and Mahomes displayed the same confidence in his team during the Chiefs’ championship parade.

Mahomes confidently assured fans that Kansas City’s three-pronged quest is underway.

“We appreciate everything you do…we know we had to hit the road last year, but I promise next year we will be home.” We’re going for this triple, so don’t get us wrong. We are doing it. Three times, the first time in NFL history. I love you all,” Mahomes said.

It will be interesting to see if the Chiefs can realize their lofty ambition in 2024-25.