Trump Pardons 5 Former NFL Players

Pardons include Dallas Cowboys legend and 4 other ex-pro athletes

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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President Donald Trump granted pardons on Thursday to five former NFL players who were previously convicted of various crimes. The pardons were announced by Trump's appointed 'pardon czar,' Alice Marie Johnson.

Why it matters

The pardons of high-profile former athletes raise questions about the use of presidential pardons and whether they are being applied fairly and appropriately, especially for individuals with means and celebrity status.

The details

The five players pardoned by Trump include a legendary Dallas Cowboys player, as well as four other ex-NFL athletes who had been convicted of crimes ranging from drug possession to financial fraud. The pardons come as part of Trump's broader use of the presidential pardon power, which has drawn criticism for appearing to benefit well-connected individuals.

  • The pardons were announced by Trump on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Alice Marie Johnson

Trump's appointed 'pardon czar' who announced the pardons.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who granted the pardons.

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What they’re saying

“Today, the President granted clemency to five former NFL players who had been previously convicted of various crimes.”

— Alice Marie Johnson, Trump's Pardon Czar

What’s next

The pardons are expected to face scrutiny from critics who argue the president is using his pardon power to benefit high-profile individuals with connections to the administration.

The takeaway

The pardons highlight concerns about the fairness and transparency of the presidential pardon process, especially when it comes to granting clemency to wealthy and famous individuals who may have the means to gain access to the president.