Donald Trump extended an invitation—NFL star Saquon Barkley declined. The 28-year-old running back was “surprised” when the U.S. president publicly mentioned his name in connection with a new sports, fitness, and nutrition council.
At the end of July, Trump signed an executive order launching the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, a body that reportedly includes several high-profile athletes tasked with advising the administration and promoting physical activity programs in schools, among other things.
The council is said to include up to 30 members, and in his official announcement, Trump named several individuals—one of them being Barkley. But it turns out that Barkley wants no part of it, according to reporting from ran.
Declined Months Ago “I was definitely a little surprised when they mentioned my name,” said the Philadelphia Eagles player. “I guess it’s something great, and I appreciate it, but I was still caught off guard hearing my name mentioned.” Barkley confirmed that his team had been contacted months ago about the council, but a quick decision was made:
“I felt like I was going to be very busy, so my family and I thought it would probably be best not to accept the offer.” So, the council—and President Trump—will have to move forward without him.
