Ahead of Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on Sunday (Feb. 9), players from the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs have been speaking boldly about believing in Jesus. As ChurchLeaders has reported, both teams feature outspoken Christian athletes who talk about prioritizing their faith and using their platforms to glorify God.
Amid preparations for the big game, numerous players talked to the media this week about what Jesus means to them. Here’s a recap of what some Eagles and Chiefs proclaimed about their Christian faith:
Super Bowl LIX: Philadelphia Eagles Who Are Rooted in Jesus
The Eagles, who went 14-3 this year, hope to avenge their narrow loss to Kansas City in the 2023 Super Bowl. From stars to rookies, Philadelphia players aren’t shy about discussing the role of religion in their lives.
During Super Bowl media events this week, quarterback Jalen Hurts said, “I’ve always wanted to root myself in [faith] and keep [Jesus] in the center of my life, in everything I do.” He added, “Through the highs and the lows, [Jesus is] greater than all of them, and that’s something that I can always acknowledge…and lean on and remember.”
Running back Saquon Barkley, this season’s Offensive Player of the Year, told a Sports Spectrum reporter, “I don’t think it’s ironic the year that I try to really hone in and grow my faith, I happen to have my best season.”
Barkley admitted he’s still learning about the Bible but said he’s challenging himself to grow spiritually. One way he does that is by studying the Bible with his agent, who’s also a pastor. At the NFL Honors awards show on Feb. 6, Barkley began his acceptance speech by giving thanks to God. “Without him, none of this would be possible,” he said.
Rookie running back Will Shipley said Jesus is “everything to me; he plays a role in every decision I make in my life.” Ahead of the big game, Shipley thanked his parents “for raising me to always put God first.”
Another Eagles rookie, linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr., said, “I’ve always been a man of faith, a man of God. I give him thanks through the ups and downs…trusting in God’s plan.” The 22-year-old added, “As a Christian…you can’t be afraid to put it out that you’re a man of faith… You’ve got to speak out about [Jesus’] glory and really praise his name.”
, players from the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs have been speaking boldly about believing in Jesus.){kind=link}