Nick Bosa’s appointment by Donald Trump to Presidential Sports Council reignites political firestorm in NFL

San Francisco 49ers star defensive end Nick Bosa has officially been appointed to the revitalized President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition—an initiative led by President Donald Trump.

The council, reinstated through a recent Executive Order, aims to combat childhood chronic disease and promote physical, mental, and civic excellence among American youth.

Nick Bosa joins Donald Trump’s Presidential Sports Council amid fitness revival

The program will reintroduce the once-prominent Presidential Fitness Test, a school-based initiative that encourages children to strive for their best. It also includes plans for a Presidential Fitness Award and broader efforts to increase access to fitness and healthy living.

The White House stated the council will also focus on “restoring tradition to college athletics,” notably taking a stance on the transfer portal and opposing men participating in women’s sports—two controversial talking points in today's sports discourse.

A familiar alliance between Nick Bosa and Donald Trump

Bosa’s relationship with Donald Trump isn’t new. The defensive lineman drew headlines back in 2019 when he wore a “Make America Great Again” hat during a post-game interview, and Trump personally congratulated him after he was selected No. 2 overall by the 49ers in that year’s NFL Draft.

“I think it’s an important time,” Bosa told reporters when asked about his role on the council, though he didn’t elaborate further. His involvement, however, has sparked debate across social media and among NFL fans, many of whom are divided over politics in sports.Other high-profile figures joining Bosa on the council include Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, and golfer Bryson DeChambeau, who serves as council chair.

A broader message wrapped in political undertones

Trump’s push to bring back the fitness council also carries strong messaging about returning to “traditional values” in sports. The inclusion of language surrounding gender categories and the transfer portal suggests the initiative is more than just about health—it’s a cultural statement. With names like Nick Bosa now attached, the intersection of politics and sports is once again front and center in America’s most-watched league.Also Read: Watch: Donald Trump’s awkward attempt at pronouncing Tua Tagovailoa’s name goes viral for all the wrong reasons