On Sunday, Fox Sports NFL analyst Michael Strahan found himself at the center of a social media firestorm after viewers criticized him for not placing his hand over his heart during the national anthem.
This took place as part of a special broadcast from the San Diego Naval Base, ahead of Veterans Day, where the Fox Sports team, including notable figures like Terry Bradshaw and Rob Gronkowski, gathered to honor the military.
The Show and the Anthem Ceremony
The national anthem was played before the NFL’s action-packed Sunday kicked off, with a large group of military personnel standing around the crew, offering a powerful show of support.
Following tradition, most members of the Fox panel stood and placed their right hands over their hearts as a sign of respect.
This included Curt Menefee, Howie Long, Bradshaw, Gronkowski, Jimmy Johnson, and Jay Glazer.
Strahan’s Controversial Decision
However, Strahan’s decision to keep his hands interlocked in front of him instead of following suit did not go unnoticed.
The moment sparked a wave of backlash from viewers who voiced their disapproval on social media.
The 52-year-old former New York Giants player, now a regular host of Good Morning America, became the target of criticism for his perceived lack of respect during such a significant moment.
Social Media Outrage
The online responses were swift and intense. Newsmax host Todd Starnes weighed in, calling Strahan’s actions disrespectful, particularly given the setting of the tribute to military personnel.
He wrote: “The great irony is Strahan on a ship surrounded by men and women who would willingly sacrifice their lives to protect his freedom. So, his behavior is not just repugnant, it’s downright cowardly.”
Many fans echoed this sentiment, with one user writing, “What the hell is wrong with Michael Strahan!? On effing Veterans Day! Boo, @NFL. Boo, @NFLonFOX. Not cool.”
Another user demanded Strahan’s firing, stating, “Fire Michael Strahan! This is unacceptable!”
Strahan’s Career and Legacy
Strahan, who spent his entire 15-season NFL career with the New York Giants, is well-known for his leadership on and off the field.
He was part of the team that won the Super Bowl against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in 2008 and is tied with T.J. Watt for the most single-season quarterback sacks in NFL history.
In 2014, Strahan was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the NFL’s greats.
A Message of Respect
Earlier in the broadcast, NFL legend Tom Brady delivered a heartfelt message to the men and women of the armed forces, emphasizing their importance and sacrifice.
Brady expressed: “You have our respect. You have the best team in the world – and I’ve seen some great teams.
But there’s no greater team in the world than our military and our armed forces.
We admire your commitment. We admire your dedication. We admire your sacrifice.”
Despite the controversy surrounding Strahan’s actions, Brady’s tribute underscored the NFL’s ongoing respect for the military and its commitment to honoring veterans.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn