The NFL has decided to leave it up to individual teams to determine whether they will honor Charlie Kirk during this weekend’s games, following his assassination on Wednesday.
Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot while addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University. He was quickly taken to a nearby hospital but sadly was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
He was only 31 years old.
Before the “Thursday Night Football” game between the Packers and another team at Lambeau Field, Green Bay held a moment of silence for Kirk.
The PA announcer stated, “The NFL should join us in reflection after the murder of Charlie Kirk. We must all stand against violence and hatred.”
The league communicated their decision on Thursday, clarifying that each of the remaining 30 teams would have the autonomy to act as they see fit.
The statement noted, “Last night’s moment of silence was a league decision. Now, it’s up to the club for the game this Sunday.” They referenced similar tributes from past incidents, including school shootings and attacks on places of worship.
Historically, the NFL has honored victims of various tragedies, including natural disasters and high-profile incidents, such as a helicopter crash that claimed lives a while back.
Outside of the NFL, the New York Yankees also observed a moment of silence for Kirk before their game against the Tigers on Wednesday, adding a poignant touch to the evening. President Trump was present in the Bronx, marking the anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
