More than 50 former football players and coaches, including several Pro Football Hall of Famers and Super Bowl MVP’s, have announced their endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. This group represents 25 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU’s) and includes 10 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees, two Super Bowl champions and MVPs, former No. 1 overall picks, and some of the first Black athletes and coaches to break the color barrier.
In a letter exclusively obtained by CBS News, the athletes and coaches expressed their confidence in Vice President Harris, stating, “Given [Vice President Harris’] integrity, values, and demonstrated commitment to justice and equality of opportunity, we are confident that as President she will serve the best interests of all Americans.” The signatories of the letter include Art Shell, the NFL’s first Black coach, Leslie Frazier, former Minnesota Vikings coach, James “Shack” Harris, the NFL’s first Black full-time starting quarterback, Greg Coleman, the NFL’s first Black punter, and former Super Bowl MVP and Chicago Bears Hall of Famer Richard Dent, who previously played for Tennessee State University.
These endorsements add to a growing list of athletes supporting the Harris-Walz Democratic ticket, including NBA all-star Steph Curry and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson. The announcement was strategically made on National Black Voter Day, an initiative aimed at encouraging Black Americans to register to vote before the November election. This initiative is led by Black Entertainment Television, a division of Paramount, in partnership with 40 civic organizations, including the NAACP and National Urban League.
The timing of this endorsement also coincided with Vice President Harris’ recent appearance before the National Association of Black Journalists in Philadelphia, where she addressed questions about her standing among Black men. A recent poll conducted by the NAACP found that roughly a quarter of young African American men under 50 support former President Donald Trump, while about half back Harris. In response to these findings, Harris emphasized the importance of earning every vote and not taking any demographic for granted.
If elected, Vice President Harris would make history as the first HBCU graduate to serve as President. Her alma mater, Howard University, holds a special place in her heart, and she has actively promoted HBCUs throughout her campaign. The Biden-Harris administration has made record investments in historically Black colleges and universities and other minority-serving institutions, highlighting the crucial role these institutions play in shaping future leaders and contributing to American society.
Vice President Harris has not shied away from showcasing her passion for sports, especially when it comes to supporting her alma mater, Howard University. She attended the Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, featuring Howard and Florida A&M University, and cheered on the Howard Bisons during the first round of the NCAA tournament last year. Her connection to sports and HBCUs has resonated with many voters and has added a personal touch to her campaign.
The endorsements from these former football players and coaches carry significant weight, as they represent a diverse group of individuals who have broken barriers and achieved excellence in their respective fields. By throwing their support behind Vice President Harris and Governor Walz, they are sending a clear message about the values and leadership qualities they believe are essential for the next President of the United States.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, these endorsements will likely play a crucial role in shaping public perception and swaying undecided voters. The support from such influential figures in the sports world underscores the importance of diversity, equality, and justice in the political landscape. Vice President Harris and Governor Walz can now leverage these endorsements to reach a broader audience and garner support from communities that may have been overlooked in previous elections.
In conclusion, the endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz by more than 50 former football players and coaches is a significant milestone in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Their support adds credibility and visibility to the Harris-Walz Democratic ticket and highlights the importance of diversity and representation in leadership positions. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, these endorsements will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the outcome of the election and the future of American politics.
