Kansas City Chiefs Player Clarifies ‘Controversial’ Speech

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Harrison Butker remains unapologetic about his commencement speech earlier this year, defending his perspective on the role of women in the home.

The Kansas City Chiefs kicker shared his thoughts during a Thursday, October 10 appearance on “The Ingraham Angle,” expressing disappointment at how his speech – which took place at Benedictine College on May 11 – was received by some.

“I was trying to speak life for so many women that have dedicated their life to being the homemaker, being the one that raises the children,” Butker explained. “And it’s a beautiful role, but it’s not a role that should be diminished.”

The 29-year-old reflected on his upbringing, crediting his “wonderful mother” for demonstrating the significance of being a homemaker, a role that he now sees in his wife, Isabelle, who he’s been married to since 2018. Butker emphasized that prioritizing family is a valid choice for women, stating, “There’s nothing shameful if you are a woman and you want to spend time with your family and raise your children. It’s not putting down anyone who maybe wants to go get a great education and have a career.”

Many social media users shared their thoughts – yet again – on Butker’s disputable comments, replying to a video of the moment that was shared on X (formerly known as Twitter).

“Well both trump and Harrison don’t respect women so it makes sense,” said one user. Another noted, “Stop giving this dude a platform.” A third mentioned how he should stick to sports, asking, “Is this where we say ‘Stick to kicking footballs?'”

Another fan mentioned Butker’s NFL jersey sales, declaring, “​​guy’s Jersey sales keep skyrocketing.” Recent sales data released by the Players Association in September indicated that Butker narrowly surpassed his teammate Travis Kelce in NFL merchandise sales, securing the 11th spot while Kelce came in at 12.

The athlete’s initial speech in the Spring sparked controversy when he addressed female graduates, suggesting they aspire to be wives and mothers. “Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world,” he remarked, which didn’t sit well with many. The speech also included critiques of abortion, IVF, surrogacy, and a comment about Pride Month, which he labeled as one of the “deadly sins.”

Butker reiterated in the segment that his speech was motivated by good intentions, saying, “I come from a place of love.”