Nick Bosa will face some predictable consequences for his MAGA hat stunt.
Following the San Francisco 49ers’ win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, the defensive star crashed a postgame interview with quarterback Brock Purdy and pointed to a white and gold MAGA hat on his head. It was not difficult to interpret the message.
However, Bosa declined to elaborate much on his statement when speaking to reporters, saying only, “I’m not going to talk about it too much, but I think it’s an important time.”
Five days later, Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports and Mark Maske of the Washington Post both reported that the NFL was reviewing Bosa’s performance for possible discipline. A suspension is not on the table, but he will be fined and a decision will not be made until later next week (read: after all, all votes have been cast in the 2024 presidential elections).
Rule 5, Section 4, Article 8 of the NFL Rule Book specifically prohibits players from wearing equipment with any form of political or political message:
“The League shall not authorize any club or player to wear, display or otherwise convey, through helmet stickers, armbands, jersey patches, mouthpieces or other items affixed to match uniforms or equipment, any message relating to on political activities or charities, other non-football events, causes or campaigns, or charitable causes or campaigns.”
You might imagine that a MAGA hat fits that definition.
Bosa has been among former President Donald Trump’s most visible supporters in the NFL ranks for years and is unlikely to be too concerned about the fine. He is currently playing on a five-year contract worth $170 million.
A four-time Pro Bowler in five seasons since being taken second overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Bosa has recorded 28 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and an interception in eight games this season.
