Donald Trump blasts Roger Goodell on live TV for “ruining football” with new NFL kickoff rule

Donald Trump again attacked the NFL’s “dynamic kickoff” rule, which he said was one of the worst changes to the sport. The 2024 rule change continues to sharply divide players, fans, and even the President of the United States. On Tuesday’s episode of The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN, Trump called in with some heavy critique, calling the rule an affront to the game’s spirit.

Donald Trump Calls Out Roger Goodell for “Hurting the Game”

Speaking about the NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Trump didn’t mince words. “I hate the kickoff in football. I think it’s so terrible, so demeaning. I think it hurts the game. I’ve told that to Roger Goodell,” he said. Trump said the new kickoff isn’t any safer and takes away one of the most exciting plays in football. “You still have guys crashing into each other. The ball is in the air and nobody is moving,” he added.

“I do have to say that I hate the new kickoff..

I think it’s so terrible” 😂😂 ~ @POTUS #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/YoGvEwzm45

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) November 11, 2025

He further said, “The pageantry of the game is so badly hurt. The NFL does what it wants to do. I hope college football doesn’t change because the power of the kickoff was so beautiful.” His comments mirrored those of a great number of fans who find the kickoff to be an integral part of the thrills and tradition in football.

Donald Trump Praises Nick Sirianni, Compares Coaches to Generals

Donald Trump’s appearance on the show also took a turn toward football leadership when he said that Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni would make a great President or general. “He’s a coach. He’s great. A real leader,” Trump said. He added that some top NFL coaches could handle war strategy due to their ability to think under pressure.

The President was also seen at Sunday’s game between the Washington Commanders and Detroit Lions, the first regular-season NFL game that a sitting President has attended since 1978. He appeared at the event to honor military veterans during halftime, but he received boos from parts of the crowd.

Later, Donald Trump told Fox commentators Kenny Albert and Jonathan Vilma that sports reflect life. “It’s a microcosm of life, you win, you lose, you fight, but ultimately, you’ve got to win,” he said. Week 11 of the NFL season continues Thursday as the New England Patriots face the New York Jets at 8:15 p.m. ET.