Former New York Giants star and current “NFL on Fox” analyst Michael Strahan is facing backlash after his stance during the national anthem at the network’s special Veterans Day broadcast from Naval Base San Diego drew attention. The special broadcast, meant to honor Veterans Day, highlighted the significance of those who serve in the military, but Strahan’s posture during the anthem has sparked a debate.
The controversy began during the airing of the national anthem when the cameras panned to the Fox broadcast crew, who were standing lined up with their hands over their hearts. Strahan, however, stood with his hands interlocked in front of him rather than over his heart.
Though the moment was brief, Strahan was seen standing beside fellow analyst Rob Gronkowski, and his posture was enough to ignite criticism from some viewers, particularly as it happened a day before Veterans Day when the nation honors the sacrifices of its servicemen and servicewomen.
The incident prompted varied reactions on social media, with some individuals taking issue with Strahan’s stance.
Critics accused Strahan of disrespecting both the national anthem and the military, particularly in the context of a broadcast meant to pay tribute to armed forces members. One user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed their disapproval, writing, “What’s wrong with Strahan? @NFLonFOX? Blatant disrespect for the men and women he is surrounded by protecting his rights and freedoms.”
Another commented, “Strahan couldn’t put his hand over his heart? HAPPY VETERANS DAY TO EVERYONE EXCEPT MICHAEL STRAHAN!! NO CLASS!!”
However, Strahan was not without his defenders. Many pointed out that his intentions were not disrespectful, highlighting his deep connection to the military. Strahan himself grew up in a military family—his father, Maj. Gene W. Strahan, Sr., served for 23 years in the United States Army, including with the 82nd Airborne Division.
One user on X defended Strahan, saying, “Strahan is the son of a Retired MAJ! I’m sure he has more respect for this country than you ever will!” Another fan echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I’m going to defend @michaelstrahan here. He stood very respectfully as he was no doubt taught to do by his father. Strahan has shared many times over his respect for veterans.”
Strahan has previously described himself as a “military brat,” and he has often spoken about the influence his father’s service had on his upbringing.
During an appearance on the Rachel Ray show in 2022, Strahan talked about his father’s military career and the values instilled in him as a child growing up in a military household.
He has consistently shown his appreciation for the armed forces, particularly on Veterans Day, making the backlash from this particular incident somewhat surprising to his supporters.
The debate over Strahan’s stance during the anthem also brought renewed attention to the United States Flag Code, which states that during the national anthem, civilians should “face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart.”
While some argue that Strahan’s interlocked hands did not comply with these guidelines, others emphasized that his respectful stance still conveyed the intended honor, especially given his background.
Controversy over how athletes and public figures conduct themselves during the national anthem is nothing new in the world of sports.
Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas faced similar criticism during the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio when she did not place her hand over her heart during the anthem. Douglas later apologized, stating that she meant no disrespect.
Additionally, the awareness surrounding anthem-related issues in sports has increased since former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality—a protest that sparked nationwide debate and drew both strong support and condemnation.
Fox’s “NFL Sunday” Veterans Day broadcast has been a long-standing tradition, designed to honor those who serve in the military. Over the years, the broadcast has been held at various notable military locations, including the U.S. Air Force Academy, Al Udeid Air Base, and Bagram Airfield.
This year, the special was hosted at Naval Base San Diego and featured NFL legend Tom Brady, who delivered a heartfelt tribute to members of the armed forces.
In his tribute, Brady said, “We really honor you today in the NFL. You men and women who are serving us around the world, you’re our heroes. You have our respect. You have the best team in the world—and I’ve seen some great teams. But there’s no greater team in the world than our military and our armed forces. We admire your commitment. We admire your dedication. We admire your sacrifice. So enjoy today. We as the NFL, we honor you. We love you. And thank you so much.”
While the backlash over Strahan’s stance during the national anthem continues to stir conversation, many fans and viewers have rallied in his defense, pointing to his respectful demeanor and the profound influence of his military upbringing.
The moment highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding gestures during the national anthem, particularly in sports, but also serves as a reminder of Strahan’s deep personal connection to the military and his unwavering respect for those who serve.
