Trump Grants Pardons to Five Former NFL Players

President Donald Trump has granted pardons to five former NFL players, including one posthumously. This significant decision was announced by Alice Marie Johnson, the White House pardon czar. The players pardoned are Joe Klecko, Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Travis Henry, and the late Billy Cannon.

Details of the Pardoned NFL Players

The pardons cover a range of offenses, from perjury to drug trafficking. Here’s a closer look at the athletes involved:

• Joe Klecko: A New York Jets legend, Klecko pleaded guilty to perjury during an insurance fraud investigation. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023 and is a two-time Associated Press All-Pro.
• Nate Newton: A Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman, Newton faced a federal drug trafficking charge. Authorities found $10,000 and 175 pounds of marijuana in his vehicles. He is a two-time All-Pro player and a three-time Super Bowl champion.
• Jamal Lewis: The former running back for the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns pleaded guilty in a drug case involving an attempted deal shortly after being a top NFL draft pick in 2000. Lewis is a one-time Pro Bowler and was the 2003 AP Offensive Player of the Year.
• Travis Henry: Playing for teams such as the Denver Broncos, Henry was convicted of conspiracy to traffic cocaine. He was known as a one-time Pro Bowler during his career.
• Billy Cannon: The late player, who passed away in 2018, admitted to counterfeiting in the 1980s due to financial troubles. Cannon famously won the Heisman Trophy in 1959 while at Louisiana State University and is notable for his memorable 89-yard punt return against Ole Miss.

Significance of the Pardons

Alice Marie Johnson expressed gratitude to Trump for his commitment to giving individuals second chances. Johnson highlighted the values of resilience and excellence shared by both football players and the nation.

The announcement of these pardons reflects Trump’s ongoing interest in sports and his willingness to extend clemency to former athletes. Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, reportedly informed Newton of his pardon personally.

With this decision, Trump not only recognizes the accomplishments of these athletes but also addresses the complexities of their past legal troubles. The pardons serve as a reminder of the possibility of redemption and the importance of second chances in life.