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NFL players often credit God in post-game interviews, but for this Super Bowl, both teams’ Christian commitments run deep.
“We pray before every game as a team together. There’s Bible studies on Fridays, chapel and mass before the game Saturday evening, and coach (Andy) Reid leads an Our Father prayer after every game,” Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker told AFP. “So there’s definitely a big Christian feel, and I think that starts with our owners as well, Clark and Tavia Hunt.”
Unlike international footballers, who rarely discuss faith openly, NFL players frequently express their religious beliefs. While some South American and Islamic athletes make religious gestures, open discussions of faith are uncommon in leagues like the Champions League or Premier League. In contrast, both starting quarterbacks in Sunday’s Super Bowl have publicly shared their Christian commitment during the game’s buildup.
“My strength comes from God. I know my points of faith. I know what my foundation is with my faith,” said Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts.
“It is important to me every single day — it’s not about football, it’s just about giving glory to God for being able to live my life, have a beautiful family and be able to have impact on others,” said three-time Super Bowl winner Patrick Mahomes. “I’m going to use that platform, win or lose, to give glory back to Him, to hopefully bring others closer to Him so that they can have the same love for life that I have because of that.”
The Chiefs and the Eagles have team chaplains to help players with spiritual matters, which is not unusual in the NFL.
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