President Donald Trump granted pardons to five former professional football players on Thursday. The list includes one player posthumously, with the pardons being attributed to a range of offenses, from perjury to drug trafficking. The announcement was made by Alice Marie Johnson, who serves as the White House pardon czar.
The players receiving clemency are Joe Klecko, Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Travis Henry, and the late Billy Cannon. In a message shared on the social media platform X, Johnson expressed gratitude towards Trump for what she called his "continued commitment to second chances." Johnson noted that Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones personally informed Newton about his pardon, highlighting Newton's significant achievements with the team, including three Super Bowl victories.
The specifics of the players’ crimes reveal a variety of legal challenges faced throughout their lives. Joe Klecko, who found fame as a defensive lineman for the New York Jets, pleaded guilty to perjury involving false testimony to a federal grand jury in an insurance fraud investigation. Recognized for his excellent performance on the field, Klecko was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, having been a two-time Associated Press All-Pro and a four-time Pro Bowler.
Nate Newton, an offensive lineman notably with the Dallas Cowboys, faced legal issues when he pleaded guilty to a federal drug trafficking charge. Authorities discovered $10,000 in cash within his vehicle, as well as 175 pounds of marijuana in a car driven by an associate. Newton also achieved two-time All-Pro status and made six Pro Bowl appearances during his career.
Jamal Lewis, who is remembered for his time with the Baltimore Ravens and the Cleveland Browns, pleaded guilty in connection with a drug case. He attempted to organize a drug deal shortly after being a top pick in the 2000 NFL draft. Lewis was recognized as an All-Pro once and garnered Pro Bowl accolades as well. He was named the 2003 AP Offensive Player of the Year, underlining his significant contributions to the sport.
Travis Henry, a former running back who played for the Denver Broncos, also faced serious charges, pleading guilty to conspiracy to traffic cocaine. His operation involved moving drugs between Colorado and Montana, indicating a serious commitment to illegal activities during this period of his life. Henry's accolades include selections as a one-time Pro Bowler, reflecting a successful football career prior to his legal troubles.
Finally, Billy Cannon, who is awarded posthumously, had a notable career playing for the Houston Oilers, Oakland Raiders, and Kansas City Chiefs. He admitted to counterfeiting in the mid-1980s, an act precipitated by financial struggles stemming from poor investments and debts. Cannon's legacy includes two-time All-Pro honors and recognition as a two-time Pro Bowler. Additionally, he won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1959 while playing for Louisiana State University, where he is celebrated for one of college football's most iconic plays: an 89-yard punt return touchdown against Ole Miss. Cannon passed away in 2018.
While the White House has not commented on the reasoning behind these specific pardons, they represent Trump's broader approach to granting clemency linked to personal stories and second chances.
