Trump’s Pardons Criticized by NFL Legends: ‘What a Joke’

The recent decision by the White House to pardon five former NFL players has ignited significant backlash on social media. This announcement, made by Alice Marie Johnson, the presidential advisor on pardons, occurred on a Thursday. The former players pardoned include Joe Klecko, Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Travis Henry, and the late Dr. Billy Cannon. Johnson expressed gratitude towards President Trump for his commitment to second chances.

Overview of the Pardons

The pardons cover a diverse range of federal offenses, including perjury, drug trafficking, and counterfeiting. Critics quickly reacted, labeling the move as hypocritical and questioning the administration’s adherence to law and order.

Details of Each Former Player’s Case

• Joe Klecko: This Hall of Famer pled guilty to perjury in the early 1990s for lying during a federal grand jury investigation related to an auto-insurance fraud case. He received a three-month jail sentence.
• Nate Newton: The former Cowboys lineman, known for his three Super Bowl victories, was convicted of drug trafficking in 2002. Newton was arrested with 175 pounds of marijuana and served 30 months in federal prison.
• Jamal Lewis: The former Ravens running back pled guilty in 2004 for facilitating a cocaine deal using a cell phone. Although no drugs were exchanged, he served four months behind bars.
• Travis Henry: This Pro-Bowl running back received a three-year sentence in 2009 for conspiracy to traffic cocaine. His operation involved transporting cocaine between Colorado and Montana.
• Dr. Billy Cannon: A posthumous pardon was granted to this two-time Pro-Bowler and 1959 Heisman Trophy winner. Cannon was sentenced in 1983 for leading a large counterfeiting operation, which involved printing millions in fake $100 bills, resulting in a two-and-a-half-year prison term.

Public Reaction and Critique

The announcement of these pardons quickly attracted criticism, particularly regarding Nate Newton’s pardon. Social media users expressed outrage, claiming that more deserving individuals were overlooked. One user remarked sarcastically, questioning the notion of mercy in contrast to being “soft on crime.”

This wave of criticism underscores the divided opinions regarding the administration’s stance on justice and second chances, particularly in high-profile cases involving former NFL players.