By Moses Joshua 
The President’s first regular-season NFL appearance in nearly five decades sparks divided crowd response during Veterans’ Day celebration
Historic Moment Draws Mixed Crowd Reaction
For the first time in 47 years, a sitting U.S. President attended a regular-season NFL game — but not everyone in the crowd was pleased. President Donald Trump made an appearance at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, for Sunday’s Veterans’ Day-themed matchup between the Detroit Lions and the Washington Commanders, marking a rare moment in both political and sports history.
When Trump first appeared on the stadium’s massive video board, standing alongside House Speaker Mike Johnson, the crowd’s reaction was immediate — and unmistakable. A chorus of boos echoed throughout the stadium, though a smaller pocket of supporters could be heard cheering amid the uproar.
At halftime, the President appeared again on screen, leading an oath recitation for military members as part of the NFL’s Salute to Service ceremony. While some fans applauded, the response remained largely negative, underscoring how politically charged the atmosphere had become during what was meant to be a unifying moment.
Lions Players Add a Touch of Humor
Before Trump’s arrival, the Lions appeared to acknowledge the Commander-in-Chief in a more lighthearted way. Late in the first quarter, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown caught a nine-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jared Goff and celebrated with teammates Sam LaPorta and Jameson Williams by performing what fans quickly dubbed the “Trump Dance.”
The playful moment drew laughter and cheers from the Detroit sideline and seemed to set the tone for an eventful evening both on and off the field.
Presidential Sports Appearances: A Rare Sight
Trump’s attendance at the Lions-Commanders game marks only the third time in history that a sitting U.S. President has attended an NFL game. The last occurrence came in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter attended a matchup, following Richard Nixon’s appearance in 1969.
This also marked the first time a sitting president has watched the Detroit Lions in person, making the event even more notable. Trump’s appearance came just months after he attended a Detroit Tigers–New York Yankees game on September 11 at Yankee Stadium, commemorating the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Controversy Beyond the Game
The President’s visit wasn’t without off-field headlines. In the days leading up to the matchup, Pat McAfee announced on his show that Trump would be attending the game. Shortly after, reports surfaced that an intermediary from the White House had approached the Commanders’ ownership group with an unusual request — that the team’s upcoming stadium in Washington, D.C., be named in his honor.
While that proposal remains unlikely, Trump’s appearance at Northwest Stadium ensured that all eyes — and cameras — were on him throughout the night.
Whether cheered or booed, President Trump once again proved one thing: wherever he goes, the spotlight — and the controversy — follow.