Harrison Butker Stands By Comments: 'Not People, But Jesus Christ I’m Trying To Please'

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker's commencement address has been the talk of the sports and media world for several weeks. He's received support from teammates and some fans, while facing extreme criticism from outsiders who disagree with his perspective and religious beliefs.

READ: Travis Kelce Weighs In On Harrison Butker's Speech With Reasonable Comments

On Friday, in his first public remarks since the speech, Butker addressed the backlash and indicated he has no intention of backing down on any of his beliefs. At the appropriately named Courage Under Fire gala in Nashville, held to support a Catholic charity, Butker spoke about the "shocking level of hate" that he received. And said he will forever remain "unapologetic" about his Catholic faith.

"If it wasn't clear that the timeless Catholic values are hated by many, it is now," Butker said. "Over the past few days, my beliefs, or what people think I believe, have been the focus of countless discussions around the globe."

"In my seven years in the NFL, I’ve become familiar with positive and negative comments. But the majority of them revolve around my performance on the field," Butker said. "But, as to be expected, the more I’ve talked about what I value most, my Catholic faith, the more polarizing I’ve become. It’s a decision I’ve consciously made, and one I do not regret at all."

He spoke more about his faith and the importance it has in his life, before saying "I can never forget that it is not people, but Jesus Christ who I am trying to please."

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 26: Place kicker Harrison Butker #7 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates kicking a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 26, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Chiefs defeated the Raiders 31-17. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)

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Butker also said he hopes he will "embolden others" so that many more will be "unapologetic of their Catholic faith, and never be afraid to speak out for truth, even when it goes against the loudest voices."

Agree or disagree with what Butker said, the treatment he's received in mainstream media and sports journalism shows how important ideology is in determining an athlete's treatment. When LeBron James or Colin Kaepernick give their opinions, they receive unending praise from friendly media commentators for their "bravery." Even though it takes little courage or bravery to agree with prevailing liberal consensus.

Butker does not, thus he receives hate and dismissal.

His willingness to stand by his deeply held beliefs in the face of overwhelming hatred from most mainstream personalities is the real courage. He'd receive no criticism from sports journalists or media commentators for trashing Catholics, or advocating for generic progressive orthodoxy. And he's finding out quickly what happens if you don't share those opinions.

Don't expect him to get any multi-million dollar Nike deals or massive billboards though. That only happens when you bravely repeat what sports media wants you to think.