NFL holds moment of silence for Charlie Kirk during Packers vs Commanders game

The NFL led a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk during Packers vs Commanders, stressing unity and leaving future tributes up to individual teams.

Published on: Sep 13, 2025, 12:20:18 IST

By HT News Desk

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During Thursday night’s game between the Green Bay Packers and Washington Commanders, the NFL surprised fans by calling for a moment of silence to honor Charlie Kirk, who was murdered the day before, according to Marca.

Fans at Lambeau Field observe a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk during the Packers vs Commanders game on Thursday night. (AP)

The tribute was shown live on Prime Video, where host Charissa Thompson introduced a video message asking fans in the stadium to pause and reflect.

The stadium announcer read an official statement from the league, “The National Football League asks you to join us in a moment of silent reflection following the murder of Charlie Kirk. The NFL condemns all violence in our communities. It will take all of us to stop the hate. Thank you.”

ALSO READ| Was Charlie Kirk wearing a bulletproof vest? Video clip sparks new theory

Similar tributes in upcoming games

After the ceremony, Pro Football Talk asked the NFL where the initiative started and whether it would be repeated across Week 2. The league said the decision came directly from the central office, not from the Packers, and added that it will be left up to each host team to decide if they want to hold similar tributes in upcoming games.

The NFL explained that moments of silence are a long-standing tradition used when a tragedy has wide national or international impact. Past ceremonies have honored victims of school shootings, religious center attacks like the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018, and natural disasters including hurricanes and wildfires.

NFL tribute in 2023

The league also recalled tributes for international events, such as the Hamas attack on Israel in 2023. It has honored sports figures too, including Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna after their fatal helicopter crash in 2020.

In recent years, the NFL has added the performance of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at major events such as the Super Bowl and the annual Kickoff Game. During 2024, moments of silence were also held in Washington, Philadelphia, and New Orleans to remember victims of attacks and accidents.

ALSO READ| Stephen King blasted for false claim about Charlie Kirk after his death

With this latest tribute, the NFL stressed its commitment to using football as a platform for reflection during times of loss. While Thursday’s decision came from the league itself, the rest of the weekend will be determined by individual teams. The league’s stance remains that football can serve as a space for respect, solidarity, and awareness.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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