Saquon Barkley Declines Invitation to Trump's Sports Council

Saquon Barkley has made it clear he will not participate in President Trump's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, despite the president's earlier assertion that the Philadelphia Eagles running back was among the panel's members.

Last week, Trump signed an executive order to establish the council, which aims to reinstate the Presidential Fitness Test for American children—a program that originated in 1966 but was discontinued during the Obama administration.

During a press conference at the White House, Trump mentioned Barkley alongside several other notable athletes, suggesting their involvement in the initiative.

However, at a press event on Monday at Eagles training camp, Barkley clarified his position. "A couple of months ago, it was brought to my team about the council," he stated. "So, I'm not really too familiar with it. I felt like that I'm going to be super busy [with the football season], so me and my family thought it probably was in our best interest to not accept that. [I] was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned, but I'm assuming it's something great."

Trump also indicated that the council would consist of up to 30 members tasked with developing criteria for a Presidential Fitness Award and addressing various issues within college athletics. This council is a rebranding of the previously known President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will oversee the implementation of the fitness test, which will include activities such as running, sit-ups, pull-ups or push-ups, and a sit-and-reach test.

Earlier this year, Barkley was seen golfing with Trump prior to the Eagles' visit to the White House to celebrate their Super Bowl LIX victory. The running back faced criticism on social media for his association with Trump but later addressed the backlash.

While Barkley attended the White House event, many key players from the Super Bowl-winning team, including Jalen Hurts, opted out of meeting with the president.