Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has declined an invitation to join President Donald Trump’s newly formed council on sports, fitness and nutrition. The council, signed into law by the president on July 31, aims to restore youth physical fitness across the United States.
Barkley expressed surprise upon learning of his inclusion, stating he had not been aware of the council’s existence until recently. He cited concerns about his busy schedule with his family as the reason for declining the offer.
Trump has assembled a diverse group of athletes and sports personalities, including Bryson DeChambeau, Annika Sörenstam, Lawrence Taylor, Harrison Butker, and Roger Goodell, among others.
The council plans to create school-based programs that reward excellence in physical education and support the development of a Presidential Fitness Award. It follows a recent visit between Barkley and Trump at the National Golf Club Bedminster, where they reportedly spent time together before Trump flew them back to Washington D.C. on Marine One.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/08/04/sports/saquon-barkley-shocked-to-hear-name-on-trumps-sports-council-after-turning-it-down