The New York Jets paid tribute to Charlie Kirk on Sunday ahead of their Week 2 showdown with the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. Just days after the conservative activist was fatally shot at a campus event in Utah, Kirk’s image and video clips featuring him with his wife Erika and their two children were displayed on the stadium Jumbotron before kickoff.
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated on September 10 while addressing students at Utah Valley University. He was 31 years old. His wife Erika later described him as a “martyr” in an emotional address, saying, “My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children.”
NFL Teams Lead Tributes Across the League
The Jets’ recognition follows tributes from other NFL teams. On Thursday night, the Green Bay Packers held a moment of silence before their game against the Washington Commanders, with a stadium announcer declaring: “The NFL condemns all violence in our communities. It will take all of us to stop hate.”
On Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys also honoured Kirk before their game against the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium, marking a growing wave of league-wide acknowledgements despite the NFL leaving decisions up to individual clubs.
Suspect in Custody as Funeral Plans Proceed
Authorities have identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the alleged assassin. He is expected to face aggravated murder charges. Police have not yet disclosed a motive for the shooting.
Kirk’s funeral is scheduled for September 21 at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, with high attendance expected from political allies and supporters. The killing has sparked tributes and sharp debate nationwide, with several public figures calling for heightened security at campus events.