Jets honor Charlie Kirk on Jumbotron ahead of Week 2 game with Bills
MetLife Stadium displayed images of the conservative activist before kickoff as other NFL teams observed moments of reflection following his killing
The New York Jets paid tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sunday, featuring images and video of Kirk and his family on the MetLife Stadium Jumbotron before the team's Week 2 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Kirk, the co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on Sept. 10 while speaking at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University. The 31-year-old father of two was killed during the engagement, and authorities have identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the alleged shooter; Robinson is expected to face an aggravated murder charge. In a livestreamed address Friday, Kirk's wife, Erika, said, "My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children. Now and for all eternity, he will stand at his savior's side wearing the glorious crown of a martyr."
The Jets' tribute came after the NFL left decisions about honoring Kirk to individual clubs. Several teams chose to mark his death in recent days. The Dallas Cowboys observed a moment of silence at AT&T Stadium before their game against the New York Giants, and the Green Bay Packers recognized Kirk during Thursday Night Football, when the Lambeau Field public-address announcer asked fans to join in "a moment of silent reflection" and said the NFL "condemns all violence in our communities. It will take all of us to stop hate. Thank you."
League officials have condemned the violence, while allowing clubs to decide how to respond at their home venues. Teams' observances have ranged from on-field moments of silence to stadium video tributes. Kirk's funeral is scheduled for Sept. 21 at State Farm Stadium in Arizona.
The reactions across the NFL reflect varied approaches by franchises to off-field tragedies and public figures. The investigation into the Utah shooting remains active, and local prosecutors were preparing charges against the alleged assailant. The events prompted public statements from family members and a number of civic and political figures, and the league's request for silent reflection was echoed at multiple stadiums over the weekend.
Teams are expected to continue coordinating security and communications as the legal process moves forward and as funeral services are planned later this month.