US President Donald Trump has added several NFL players, including star running back Saquon Barkley, to his Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition. The announcement, made recently in Washington, also confirmed the return of the Presidential Fitness Test in schools, a program discontinued during Barack Obama’s administration. This initiative aims to promote health and athleticism among American youth.
President Trump emphasized the importance of reinstating the fitness test, which includes activities such as one-mile runs, sit-ups, and stretching exercises designed to encourage physical fitness among children nationwide.
“This is a wonderful tradition, and we’re bringing it back,” Trump said on Thursday.
Notable Members of the Sports Council Include NFL and Other Sporting Icons
Along with Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles, other prominent members appointed to the council include linebacker Lawrence Taylor, quarterback Tony Romo, kicker Harrison Butker, and defensive end Nick Bosa. Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell received a position on the advisory group, highlighting its broad reach within professional sports.
Beyond football, Trump lauded figures from other disciplines present at the announcement, such as golfer Bryson DeChambeau, NHL legend Wayne Gretzky, and WWE star Paul “Triple H” Levesque. This diverse lineup underscores the council’s multifaceted approach to promoting fitness and sportsmanship.
“I was always a person that loved playing sports. I was good at sports,” Trump said. “When you are really focused on sports, you’ve thought about nothing else. To an extent, this is one of the reasons I like golf. You get away for a couple of hours.”
Trump’s Support Sparks Mixed Reactions Ahead of Eagles’ White House Visit
Following the 2024 Presidential election win by Trump, a number of NFL players expressed public support for the President. Saquon Barkley’s personal meeting with Trump before the Philadelphia Eagles’ White House visit raised some eyebrows among fans, highlighting the intersection of sports and politics in this new collaboration.
Focus on Tua Tagovailoa’s Health and Future Performance
During his remarks, President Trump highlighted Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa as a council member, stressing the importance of his health for a successful upcoming season. Trump expressed confidence that Tagovailoa’s continued fitness will allow him to perform at a high level in 2025.
“Saquon Barkley was on the council and Tua Tagovailoa the quarterback, he’s been fantastic. … When he’s not injured, he’s great. He’s gotta stay healthy. He’s a great guy.” —Donald Trump
Continuing this conversation, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel used the President’s words to motivate Tagovailoa, joking about the urgency of maintaining his health in the coming season.
“I think if I was concerned about how serious he (Tua) was taking his part in staying healthy, I think he got an executive order last night to stay healthy if I’m not mistaken,” McDaniel joked.
President Trump Maintains Influence Within the NFL Community
Throughout the 2024 NFL season, Donald Trump remained a frequently discussed figure within the league. His ability to engage current and former players, along with prominent sports figures through the council, signals ongoing influence in professional sports circles. With several high-profile athletes joining his council, Trump aims to strengthen national fitness initiatives and sports programs across the country.