NFL WAGs Shine in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

Some well-known NFL WAGs made a statement on draft day by appearing in swimsuits for Sports Illustrated.

The iconic publication revealed its February 2026 Digital SI Swimsuit Issue cover, featuring stars like Brittany Mahomes, Normani, Haley Cavinder, Ronica Love, Claire Kittle, and Kristen Goff.

On the cover, the group looked amazing, displaying a range of stylish black swimsuits as the anticipation builds for the 2026 Super Bowl, where the Seattle Seahawks will face off against the New England Patriots.

Additionally, the women showcased their striking silhouettes in different swimsuits during a separate photoshoot by Katherine Goguen at the South Seas Resort in Fort Myers, Florida.

“We drafted ‘SI Swimsuit Digital Cover Stars,’ and here are the results,” SI Swimsuit announced on Thursday, sharing a video where the women introduce themselves.

Brittany Mahomes, who is a mother of three, described herself as a previous professional football player turned certified personal trainer. Normani, engaged to Steelers’ DK Metcalf, cheekily claimed, “10x platinum, no need for school.”

Haley Cavinder introduced herself, saying, “I’m from America,” while she’s engaged to Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson. Claire Kittle humorously referred to her status as “fifth-year college tight end,” referencing the tight end initiative co-founded by her husband George Kittle, along with Travis Kelce and Greg Olsen.

Ronica Love described herself as “Certified Sweetheart Women’s College” while married to Packers quarterback Jordan Love. Kristen Goff is returning for her seventh SI Swimsuit shoot, while this marks the second for Mahomes, who was named SI Swimsuit Rookie of the Year in 2024. Cavinder donned a cowboy hat for a new digital cover after previously participating in the 2024 SI Swimsuit Runway Show alongside her twin sister, Hannah.

They all reflected on the term WAG, which typically includes wives and girlfriends of professional athletes, suggesting it could use an update. Mahomes shared her thoughts, saying that being a ‘sweetheart’ is demanding for an NFL player, involving lots of behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed. “But we can also enjoy life and pursue our own passions,” she added.

Goff noted that the term WAG has gained a negative connotation over the years. “Many women are elevating that term, contributing positively to their communities and brands. Being a WAG is more than just being a football player’s wife, and it’s a privilege to share this project with other talented women in the NFL,” she explained, embracing the mix of her worlds in Sports Illustrated and football.

Ronica, a professional volleyball player for San Diego Mojo, expressed the challenge of being labeled a WAG instead of an athlete. “It’s tough never being recognized as an athlete. I’m competitive, and hearing ‘WAG’ makes me think of my husband, who I call a HAB,” she said, explaining her journey while also expecting a daughter this spring.

She acknowledged how women have been boxed into being known just as significant others, lacking recognition for their own achievements. “It used to bother me, but after six years together, I’ve evolved. I always dreamed of being in Sports Illustrated, but I never thought it would coincide with pregnancy.” Still, she appreciates the significance of this moment. “There’s a lot of power in being a woman and evolving, and yes, looking good on the beach is part of it too.”

Cavinder shared her own journey after quitting basketball following the 2025 season, noting that building her brand has been fulfilling. “I learned that you can be someone’s biggest supporter and still pursue your passions. That’s what WAG means to me,” she reflected.

Kittle expressed excitement about her SI opportunity, recalling that her husband graced the cover back in 2015 during his college days. “My husband was on the cover, and now it’s my turn,” she said, highlighting the shared journey.

The former University of Iowa basketball player added, “WAG is just a collective label, but we each represent ourselves, our partners, and the NFL well.” She emphasized that leading by example is vital in reshaping the narrative around the term. “Words carry weight, but action is what truly matters.”