Red, White, and Football: NFL Teams Loved by U.S. Presidents

 

As the U.S. election season heats up, many might be curious about each president’s favorite NFL team—a topic that showcases a bit of their personal sports affinities and can help humanize the figures we see in leadership.

1. Joe Biden: Biden has long been a Green Bay Packers fan, a choice rooted in his experience at a Catholic school taught by Norbertine priests. The school's headmaster was a fervent Packers supporter, and Biden recalls this influence fondly, saying he’d feel guilty rooting for any other team.

2. Donald Trump: Although not particularly vocal about a single NFL team, Trump has shown interest in several teams, such as the Patriots, and has a longstanding connection with football through his former ownership of the New Jersey Generals in the USFL. His friendships with figures like Patriots coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady also underscore his connection to the sport​

3. Barack Obama: A Chicago native, Obama is a dedicated Chicago Bears fan. He has often referenced his love for the team and even celebrated their storied history, particularly the 1985 championship team, which won Super Bowl XX​

4. George W. Bush: Bush is known for enjoying Sunday football games, particularly for fun family gatherings rather than backing a specific team. However, his encounters with the sport are memorable, especially the time he famously choked on a pretzel while watching a game in 2002​

5. Bill Clinton: While Clinton is an ardent college football fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, he has expressed support for the Washington Football Team (formerly Redskins) during his time in office, likely influenced by proximity to D.C. sports teams​

6. Ronald Reagan: Known as the “Gipper,” Reagan played Notre Dame legend George Gipp in a 1940 film, which endeared him to many football fans. Although not a regular NFL enthusiast, his association with Notre Dame has cemented him as an iconic figure in college football lore​

7. Gerald Ford: Ford was a fan and an accomplished player, starring for the University of Michigan in the 1930s and even receiving NFL offers from the Lions and Packers. Ford declined these offers to pursue a career in law, but he remained close to football for life​

Each president's unique tie to the NFL or football culture underscores the sport’s significant role in American life. These presidents' NFL fandoms reflect personal histories, geographic ties, or just genuine love for the game.