Malcolm Jenkins to boycott Philadelphia Eagles trip to White House after Super Bowl win
Monday 5 February 2018 19:48, UK
Philadelphia Eagles star safety Malcolm Jenkins says he plans to boycott the traditional White House visit along with at least two other members of the Super Bowl-winning team.
Jenkins, who has been an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, will skip the trip to Washington along with defensive end Chris Long and wide receiver Torrey Smith following the Eagles 41-33 win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII.
Long won a Super Bowl ring with the Patriots last year and also declined to make the trip. The 32-year-old made headlines this year by giving away his entire paycheck to worthy causes and has been a vocal supporter of team-mates who have protested against social injustice this season.
Trump has been engaged in a feud with the NFL all year over players kneeling in protest during the national anthem.
The mainly African-American players have been taking a knee during the Star-Spangled Banner to protest police brutality and racial injustice.
Jenkins told CNN: "No, I personally do not anticipate attending that. My message has been clear all year
"I want to see changes in our criminal justice system. I want to see us push for economic and educational advancement in communities of colour and low-income communities.
"And I want to see our relationships between our communities and our law enforcement be advanced. That's what myself and my peers have been pushing for the last two years and that's what I'll continue to do."
Trump congratulated the Eagles following the game.
"Congratulations to the Philadelphia Eagles on a great Super Bowl victory!" Trump tweeted.
Stay with us through the week for all the reaction and fall-out to Super Bowl LII and follow us @SkySportsNFL through the off season we track the Draft, Free Agency and get ready for a new season!
