Sam Ponder Shares Rational Thoughts On Harrison Butker

Since Harrison Butker gave his commencement address, he and his message have been the talk of the sports world.

Butker's views, which for the most part aligned with much of what Catholicism teaches, have been both criticized and praised. Many media commentators have gone after Butker for disagreeing with their view points, while fans have generally been supportive.

READ: Harrison Butker's Jersey Among The Most Popular Selling Following College Address

ESPN's Sam Ponder gave her views on Butker's speech in a Friday afternoon post on X, as part of a Q&A. And after days of hyperbole and outrageous takes, including local papers saying he should be "fired," Ponder's take was a bastion of rationality and perspective.

"I think the petition that he should be fired from the Chiefs is totally unamerican [sic]," Ponder posted. "Is a Catholic espousing traditionally Catholic views to a Catholic audience really that shocking? Why can't we just respectfully disagree? Personally, I agreed with a few things he said…especially that most women are more excited/proud of their families than their day jobs. I love my job and have worked my butt off (and slept in my car) to get here but it's not even comparable to how I feel about being a mom!"

"ESPN will not be with me on my death bed. When did that become offense? I disagreed with a few things he said too. I do not think my life ‘began’ when I became a wife and mom. I think you can lead a totally fulfilled and purposeful life as a single woman in the workplace! Frankly I think I could have had an equally meaningful life if I never got married/became a mother. I'm so proud to be an American where he can share his beliefs openly."

GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 12: Harrison Butker #7 of the Kansas City Chiefs warms up before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles prior to Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium on February 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Sam Ponder Is A Voice Of Reason On Harrison Butker

Many fans and media personalities strongly agree with what Butker said. Many don't. The fact that some can't even hear his perspective without calling for him to be "fired" or released though, is absurd.

Ponder likely represents many fans, especially women, who may not have agreed with everything he said, but still thought he also made good points. But as is all too often the case in the modern cultural discourse, there seems to be an endless competition to see who can be the most outraged.

Many conservative fans are often forced to sit and listen to woke lectures from NFL personalities, executives or media members. Often, and seemingly purposefully, in situations where those lectures aren't justified. One speech reflecting some Catholic values by a Catholic to a Catholic audience, and they lose their minds.

At least Sam Ponder didn't.