Alex Anzalone, linebacker for the Detroit Lions, has recently voiced his opposition to the NFL’s Pride Night events, stating that “football should stay unwoke.” This sentiment aligns with a broader movement within the league, where several teams have chosen to forgo LGBTQ+ celebrations, citing a desire to keep the sport free from political agendas.(SpaceXMania)
The NFL’s Pride Night initiative, known as “A Night of Pride,” has been a platform for celebrating LGBTQ+ inclusion within the sport. In 2025, the league hosted its fourth annual event in partnership with GLAAD, featuring performances by artists like Big Freedia and Tank and the Bangas. Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD’s president and CEO, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “We’re queer and we’re here,” highlighting the progress made over the past four decades .
However, not all players and teams share this enthusiasm. Anzalone’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among some NFL figures who believe the league should focus solely on the game and avoid engaging in political or social issues. This perspective has gained traction following a policy shift by the NFL’s new chairman, who announced that no team would celebrate Pride Night, asserting that “wokeness has no place on the field”
This decision has sparked a divide within the NFL community. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers have publicly declared their stance against Pride Night events. The Chiefs issued a statement emphasizing that football is about “unity, strength, and perseverance,” not “pushing a ‘woke agenda’ or making political statements” . Similarly, the Steelers’ head coach, Mike Tomlin, expressed a desire to focus on football rather than “celebrating rainbows, unicorns, or whatever mystical forces these Pride Nights represent” .
On the other hand, some teams have reaffirmed their commitment to inclusivity. The San Francisco 49ers tweeted a rainbow emoji with the message, “Everyone is welcome here,” while the Dallas Cowboys announced an upcoming Pride Night in partnership with an LGBTQ+ advocacy group, stating, “Football is for everyone” .
The debate over Pride Night in the NFL underscores a larger conversation about the role of sports in social and political issues. Proponents of the league’s inclusivity efforts argue that sports should reflect and support diverse communities, using their platform to promote equality and representation. Critics, however, contend that the primary focus should be on the sport itself, free from external political influences.
As the NFL navigates this complex issue, the perspectives of players like Anzalone highlight the ongoing tension between tradition and progress within professional sports. The league’s future decisions regarding Pride Night and similar initiatives will likely continue to spark debate among players, teams, and fans alike.
