ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith has criticized the NFL for its response to players who performed the “Trump Dance” after key plays, calling it an overreaction. The dance, which became a trend following President Donald Trump’s rally performances, was performed by multiple NFL players this season, including San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa, who has been outspoken in his support for Trump.
Smith, the co-host of First Take and radio show host, voiced his disapproval of the NFL issuing a statement on the celebratory dances, saying it was unnecessary. “Celebrations usually don’t warrant a response, and they’ve got a right to support who the hell they want without the league needing to send in a response,” Smith said.
Stephen A Smith on point 100% wtf is the NFL trying to ban the so called “ Trump dance “ NFL since when do you NOT support the President elect ?? This is freaking America stand with your leader no matter who you voted for !! AMERICA made it LOUD & CLEAR , We needed a change we… https://t.co/HEL5OSwngS
— JOHN BOLARIS (@JohnBolaris) November 24, 2024
The issue arose after Bosa, who had been fined previously for wearing a MAGA hat during a postgame interview, performed the Trump dance after a sack. Bosa’s action sparked the league’s involvement, even though NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy clarified that celebratory dances were not prohibited. McCarthy also mentioned that it was up to the broadcast networks to decide how to cover such moments.
Smith criticized the NFL’s overreaction to the dance, drawing a comparison to UFC President Dana White, who he said would never address a similar situation. “Dana White doesn’t entertain that nonsense. He supports who he supports and doesn’t apologize for it,” Smith remarked. “Most American citizens should feel free to do that.”
Stephen A. Smith Defends NFL Players Doing Trump Dance https://t.co/EAfYCkvIl7
— Michael McCarthy (@MMcCarthyREV) November 24, 2024
Smith expressed frustration with what he sees as the growing power of “woke culture” and “cancel culture,” which he believes stifle free expression. He linked these cultural issues to the rise of Donald Trump, saying they were a major factor in his 2016 victory. “This is why Donald Trump was elected in the first place,” Smith concluded, suggesting that the NFL’s reaction was a symptom of the larger cultural divide in America.
Smith’s comments reflect the ongoing cultural tensions around personal expression, political correctness, and how public figures navigate these issues in sports and beyond. He concluded by asserting that Trump’s presidency, and the ongoing cultural debates, will continue to shape the country for years to come.
