Outraged Bengals Fan Pledges Boycott Over Owner’s Divisive Charlie Kirk Stance
Cincinnati Bengals Face Backlash for Skipping Charlie Kirk Tribute
[Image: Cincinnati Bengals fans at a game; caption: "Bengals faced criticism for not holding a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk."]
The Cincinnati Bengals sparked outrage after choosing not to honor murdered conservative podcaster Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence during their September 14 home opener. The decision prompted a blistering letter to the editor in the Cincinnati Enquirer from local resident Brian Frank, who accused the team’s ownership of prioritizing “money and power” over “God.”
Frank likened Kirk’s death to the assassinations of JFK, RFK, and MLK, calling it “potentially more transformative.” He claimed he turned off the game in protest, stating the Bengals’ “indifference” to the tragedy left him “ashamed and appalled.” The Bengals, led by owner Mike Brown, have not publicly commented.
NFL Teams Divided on Tributes
[Image: Arizona Cardinals fans observing a moment of silence; caption: "The Cardinals were among several teams honoring Kirk during Week 2 games."]
Kirk, a polarizing MAGA influencer, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10. While the Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs, and others held tributes, the Bengals, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Baltimore Ravens opted out. The NFL clarified that teams were encouraged but not required to hold moments of silence. League officials noted precedents like honoring victims of the 2018 Pittsburgh synagogue shooting and the 2023 Hamas attacks.
Suspect’s Chilling Pre-Attack Remarks
[Image: Mugshot of Tyler Robinson; caption: "Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested after a 33-hour manhunt."]
Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested September 12 after a manhunt. Authorities revealed Robinson had criticized Kirk’s “hateful” views during a family dinner before the attack. His relatives alerted police post-arrest, with Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirming Robinson’s father helped turn him in. Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder and obstruction of justice.
NFL’s History of Honoring Tragedies
In a statement, the NFL highlighted its history of recognizing national and community tragedies, including Damar Hamlin’s on-field cardiac arrest and tributes to Kobe Bryant. While the league mandated a moment of silence during the Packers’ Thursday game, Sunday decisions were left to individual teams.
[Image: Mike Brown at a Bengals event; caption: "Bengals owner Mike Brown faced criticism for the omission."]
Frank’s letter underscores the divisive reaction to Kirk’s death and the NFL’s role in navigating politically charged tributes. As debates over free speech and public remembrance continue, the Bengals’ choice highlights the challenges teams face in balancing inclusivity with fan expectations.
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