Harrison Butker, the Kansas City Chiefs star kicker, has found himself at the center of a national controversy following his commencement speech at Benedictine College in May. His comments, which touched on hot-button issues such as women in the workforce, abortion, and President Joe Biden’s handling of COVID-19, ignited a firestorm of reactions. Now, nearly three months later, Butker is standing by his words, insisting that his message was born out of love and conviction, not malice.

During his address to the graduating class of Benedictine College, Butker made several statements that many found inflammatory, particularly his assertion that women in the workforce had been deceived by “one of the most diabolic lies.” He also criticized President Biden’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as abortion, in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and euthanasia. These topics, already divisive in the public sphere, were made more controversial by Butker’s blunt delivery and the platform from which he spoke.

Butker’s speech quickly went viral, with clips circulating widely on social media. Critics were swift and fierce, with many accusing the NFL star of promoting outdated and harmful ideologies. Former ESPN host Michelle Beadle and tennis legend Serena Williams were among those who publicly condemned Butker’s remarks, adding to the growing chorus of voices challenging his views.

Despite the backlash, Butker has remained resolute. Speaking to reporters at the Kansas City Chiefs training camp on Wednesday, just days after signing a record-breaking $25.6 million contract that made him the highest-paid placekicker in the NFL, Butker doubled down on his speech. “I prayed about it, I thought about it, and I was very intentional with what I said,” he explained. “I stand by what I said.”

Butker emphasized that his remarks were not intended to harm or alienate anyone but were rooted in his deeply held beliefs. “I really believe if people knew me as a person and understood that it was coming from a place of love, and not a place of trying to attract or put people down,” Butker said, “I only want the best for people, that’s what I was trying to say there. I think the people that were in that gymnasium all understood what I was saying.”

In the face of continued criticism, Butker has chosen to focus on the positives that have emerged from the situation. He revealed that his speech had sparked meaningful conversations within the Chiefs’ locker room, with players engaging in discussions about their differing views. For Butker, these dialogues are a sign that his words have had an impact, even if they were not universally well-received.

While Butker has faced significant backlash, he has also received support from various quarters. Chiefs heiress Gracie Hunt publicly praised Butker in the days following the speech, commending him for his courage in speaking out on issues he believes in. This support has helped bolster Butker’s resolve as he navigates the fallout from his comments.

However, the criticism has been loud and persistent. Many in the sports world, including former Chiefs cheerleaders, have voiced their disapproval, arguing that Butker’s views are not only controversial but potentially harmful. The tension between Butker’s supporters and detractors underscores the broader cultural and political divides that exist in America today.

Butker is acutely aware of the platform he holds as a professional athlete, especially as a member of a team that has achieved tremendous success in recent years, including back-to-back Super Bowl victories. “I’ve been in the league for seven years now, and I do have a platform,” Butker acknowledged. “So with that comes people that want me to state what I believe to be very important.”

As one of the NFL’s most prominent kickers, Butker recognizes that his words carry weight, both on and off the field. His decision to speak out on controversial issues has made him a polarizing figure, but it has also sparked important conversations about the role of athletes in public discourse. “I’m going to continue to say what I believe to be true and love everyone along the way,” Butker said, reaffirming his commitment to using his platform to express his beliefs.

As the NFL season approaches, Butker’s focus will inevitably shift back to football. The Chiefs are set to begin their regular season on September 5th against the Baltimore Ravens, a game that will be watched closely by fans and commentators alike. But despite the looming season, the controversy surrounding Butker’s speech is unlikely to fade entirely. His comments have left an indelible mark, sparking debates that will continue long after the football games are over.