Fox Sports NFL analyst and former New York Giants star Michael Strahan faced a firestorm of criticism after he chose not to place his hand over his heart during the national anthem at Sunday’s NFL pre-game broadcast.
Taking place on a San Diego Naval Base just ahead of Veterans Day, the broadcast featured the anthem in front of a sizable group of military personnel. While his co-hosts placed their hands over their hearts, Strahan stood with his hands clasped in front of him, a choice that immediately set off a backlash among viewers, who took to social media to voice their disapproval.
Strahan, 52, responded to the criticism on Instagram, posting a photo of his father, Major Gene W. Strahan Sr., in military uniform, along with a heartfelt message honoring veterans.
“Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day,” Strahan wrote, adding that he keeps them in his thoughts daily. He added, “Just as I honor my father, I keep all of you in my thoughts each and every day as we would not have the safety and freedoms we cherish without you.”
The reaction to Strahan’s stance during the anthem was swift, with fans and commentators lambasting the Hall of Famer. Newsmax host Todd Starnes posted a photo of the moment on social media, saying, “Michael Strahan disrespected the military during a Veterans Day pre-game show on @NFLonFOX.”
Starnes went further, calling Strahan’s decision “repugnant” and “downright cowardly.” Other comments echoed similar sentiments, with some fans even calling for Strahan’s firing. “On effing Veterans Day! Boo, @NFL. Boo, @NFLonFOX,” one fan posted, while others labeled the decision “disrespectful to all Veterans and Americans.”
Adding to the patriotic sentiment, earlier in the broadcast, NFL legend Tom Brady delivered a message of gratitude to the armed forces.
“You have the best team in the world… there’s no greater team in the world than our military and our armed forces,” Brady said, emphasizing the NFL’s respect for military personnel and thanking them for their commitment and sacrifice.
Strahan’s background as a former NFL great and current morning show personality has kept him in the public eye for years, yet this latest incident shows just how sensitive displays of patriotism can be, especially on a weekend meant to honor those who serve.
