Nick Bosa will face some predictable repercussions for his MAGA hat stunt.
Following the San Francisco 49ers’ win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, the star defensive end interrupted a postgame interview with quarterback Brock Purdy and pointed to a white and gold hat that said “Make America Great Again” on its head. It was not difficult to interpret the message.
However, Bosa declined to give many details about his statement when speaking to reporters, saying only, “I’m not going to talk too much about this, but I think it’s an important moment.”
Five days later, CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones and Mark Maske of the Washington Post Both reported that the NFL is reviewing Bosa’s appearance for possible discipline. A suspension is not on the table, but he could face a fine, and a decision won’t be made until late next week (read: after all votes have been cast in the 2024 presidential election).
Rule 5, Section 4, Article 8 of the NFL rule book specifically prohibits players from wearing equipment with any type of political message:
“The League will not grant permission to any club or player to use, display or transmit messages, through helmet decals, armbands, jersey patches, mouthpieces or other items attached to uniforms or game equipment, that relate to political activities or causes, other non-football related events, causes or campaigns, or charitable causes or campaigns.”
You would imagine that a MAGA hat meets that definition.
Bosa has been among former President Donald Trump’s most visible supporters in the NFL ranks for years, and he probably won’t worry too much about the fine. He is currently playing on a five-year, $170 million contract.
Bosa, a four-time Pro Bowler in five seasons since being selected second overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, has recorded 28 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and one interception in eight games this season.
