A majority of NFL teams held moments of silence Sunday for slain Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, but five franchises declined to do so.
Kirk, 31, was assassinated Wednesday during a speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.
Teams That Honored Kirk
The New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Dallas Cowboys all held pregame tributes.
Photos of Kirk, his wife Erika, and their children were displayed at the Jets game.
Fans stood for a solemn moment before kickoff.
Teams That Declined
The Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, and Minnesota Vikings chose not to participate.
Those teams gave no public explanation for their decision.
The split has drawn criticism from Kirk’s supporters.
League’s Statement
The NFL said Thursday’s league-wide tribute at Lambeau Field was its decision.
But it left Sunday’s gestures up to individual franchises.
“Clubs often hold moments following tragedies that affect their community,” the league said.
Past Examples
The NFL noted moments of silence have followed school shootings.
Tributes have also marked terror attacks and natural disasters.
The Tree of Life Synagogue attack in 2018 and the Hamas attack on Israel in 2023 were both referenced.
Kirk’s Influence
Kirk, an Illinois native, was a lifelong Chicago sports fan.
He rose to prominence as the co-founder of Turning Point USA.
His group energized conservative youth across the country.
President Trump announced Kirk will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
He praised Kirk as a “martyr for truth and freedom.”
Supporters said the recognition reflects his national impact.
A public memorial will be held Sept. 21 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
The venue, home of the Arizona Cardinals, seats more than 63,000.
The Cardinals themselves observed a tribute before Sunday’s game.
