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Trump Praises Mahomes, Favors Chiefs in Super Bowl 60

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 15:01 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Las Vegas, NV - February 8th, 2026 - Former President Donald Trump offered a wide-ranging assessment of the NFL, Super Bowl 60, and the broader political landscape in a pre-game interview with NBC's Craig Melvin. Airing Sunday evening ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs versus San Francisco 49ers showdown, the 'Sitdown with the President' provided a platform for Trump to voice his opinions on America's most popular sport and hint at his future political ambitions. While the interview touched on numerous subjects, from player safety to social justice, it was Trump's commentary on the game itself - and the players involved - that initially dominated headlines.

Mahomes Mania and the Chiefs' Dynasty

Trump unequivocally expressed his admiration for Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, labeling him "incredible" and praising his "great feel for the game." This endorsement isn't new; Trump has consistently lauded successful athletes, and Mahomes' status as a generational talent clearly resonates with the former president. He credited the Chiefs' strong performance this season not solely to Mahomes, but to the "great team behind him," acknowledging the importance of a well-rounded roster. However, when discussing the opposing San Francisco 49ers, Trump's praise was noticeably more restrained. While acknowledging their capabilities, he maintained that Kansas City was "just terrific" and positioned them as the clear favorites.

This preference speaks to a pattern observed throughout Trump's public life - a tendency to champion perceived winners and project an image of strength and success. The Chiefs, currently attempting to establish a modern NFL dynasty, fit that mold perfectly. His clear leaning toward the Chiefs undoubtedly fueled pre-game chatter among fans and pundits alike, and created a separate talking point besides the on-field action.

Kaepernick's Potential Return: A Lingering Question

The interview also revisited the contentious topic of Colin Kaepernick, the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback who sparked national debate by kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality. Trump, who has been a vocal critic of Kaepernick in the past, offered a cautious response when asked about the possibility of his return to the NFL. While acknowledging the league's efforts to address social issues, he expressed "skepticism" about Kaepernick ever rejoining the ranks, stating, "They've done a lot of things, and I think he may not be back."

This stance highlights the deeply divisive nature of the issue. Despite years of calls for Kaepernick's reinstatement and a growing awareness of social justice concerns, the NFL has remained hesitant to offer him another opportunity. Trump's comments reflect that hesitancy, suggesting a continued reluctance to embrace a player who challenged the status quo. Kaepernick remains a potent symbol of protest and social change, and the issue continues to be a source of debate within the league and among its fans. The situation is likely to remain a talking point for years to come, especially given the NFL's increased focus on social responsibility.

Addressing the NFL's Challenges

Beyond individual players, Trump addressed broader issues facing the NFL. He identified player safety and declining viewership as major concerns, stating, "I think they've got a lot of problems. They're losing their fans. People don't like what's happening. They're very angry about it."

This critique touches on valid concerns within the league. Concussions and long-term health risks remain a significant problem, and the NFL has faced criticism for its handling of player safety protocols. Declining viewership, while often overstated, has been a topic of discussion in recent years, particularly among older demographics. The league has responded by implementing rule changes and investing in initiatives to improve player safety and enhance the fan experience, but Trump's assessment suggests that these efforts may not be enough.

A Glimpse at the Political Horizon

Unsurprisingly, the conversation quickly shifted to politics. Trump used the opportunity to criticize the Biden administration and offer a veiled reference to a potential run in the 2024 presidential election. "I think we're going to have a tremendous election, a very big election," he declared, hinting at a future political engagement. This statement aligns with months of speculation about Trump's intentions and reinforces his continued influence within the Republican party. The Super Bowl interview served as a subtle, yet effective, platform for him to re-enter the public discourse and position himself for a potential campaign.

Ultimately, the 'Sitdown with the President' offered a multifaceted glimpse into Trump's perspectives on sports, society, and politics. While his football analysis may have been secondary to the broader implications of the interview, his commentary on the NFL's challenges and his potential political future ensured that the conversation extended far beyond the gridiron.