(Rightallegiance.com) – San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa found himself at the center of a social media storm following the team’s victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. Bosa faced a significant amount of backlash after he was seen displaying a “Make America Great Again” hat, a symbol associated with former President Donald Trump.
Nick Bosa crashed the SNF postgame interview wearing a MAGA hat pic.twitter.com/Rj0T0XpcWB
— NFL Memes (@NFL_Memes) October 28, 2024
Bosa, known for his prowess on the field, appeared unfazed by the criticism as he posted a collage of photos on Instagram, which included the moment he proudly displayed the red MAGA cap. The image quickly sparked debate, drawing polarized reactions across social media platforms.
However, at least one prominent figure from the NFL world came forward to express support for Bosa. Former Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who has been vocal about his support for Trump in the past, left a comment on Bosa’s Instagram post, reading simply, “MAGA,” followed by two American flag emojis. This public show of support drew attention, adding Urlacher’s name to the growing discussion around Bosa’s post.
Urlacher has long been an open supporter of Donald Trump. In 2021, Urlacher shared a memorable experience with the former president when he visited the White House and posed for a photograph in the Oval Office, with his Bears jersey displayed on the Resolute Desk. He described the occasion in an Instagram caption as “a once in a lifetime experience,” adding, “Got to hang in the Oval Office with President Trump and my family. He could not have been any nicer or accommodating to all of us.” Urlacher’s connection to Trump also extended to his family, as Trump pardoned Urlacher’s brother, Casey Urlacher, in 2021, shortly before leaving office.
Bosa’s public show of support for Trump is one of the few instances in which an active NFL player has explicitly backed a political candidate during this election cycle. Other current NFL players have also made their political views known. Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker endorsed Trump earlier this year, and Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Thomas Booker IV has shown his support for Vice President Kamala Harris. These endorsements reflect the diverse political beliefs held by players within the league, though public endorsements remain relatively uncommon.
When asked about his decision to wear the MAGA hat after the game, Bosa offered only a brief response. “I’m not gonna talk too much about it, but I think it’s an important time,” he said. Bosa’s comment hints at the weight he places on the current political moment but also reflects a reluctance to delve too deeply into the controversy.
The incident highlights the ongoing intersection of sports and politics, where athletes are increasingly using their platforms to express personal beliefs, knowing well that doing so will draw both support and criticism. For Bosa, displaying the MAGA hat was a statement, and the reactions—both positive and negative—reflect the divisive nature of American politics today.