Trump Pardons 5 Former NFL Players for Crimes

Pardons cover offenses from perjury to drug trafficking

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former President Donald Trump has issued pardons for five former NFL players who were convicted of various crimes, including perjury, drug trafficking, and other offenses. The pardons have drawn criticism from some who argue that Trump is using his executive clemency powers to benefit high-profile individuals.

Why it matters

Trump's use of the pardon power has been controversial, with critics arguing that he has at times used it to benefit his allies and political supporters. This latest round of pardons is likely to renew debates about whether the president is wielding this authority appropriately.

The details

The five former NFL players pardoned by Trump are: Michael Vick, who served 21 months in prison for his role in a dog fighting ring; Plaxico Burress, who served 20 months for illegal gun possession; Duke Cunningham, who was convicted of bribery and tax evasion; Charles Kushner, who was convicted of tax evasion, witness tampering, and making illegal campaign donations; and Eddie DeBartolo Jr., who was convicted of failing to report an extortion attempt.

  • Trump issued the pardons on February 13, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who issued the pardons.

Michael Vick

A former NFL quarterback who served 21 months in prison for his role in a dog fighting ring.

Plaxico Burress

A former NFL wide receiver who served 20 months in prison for illegal gun possession.

Duke Cunningham

A former U.S. Representative who was convicted of bribery and tax evasion.

Charles Kushner

A real estate developer who was convicted of tax evasion, witness tampering, and making illegal campaign donations.

Eddie DeBartolo Jr.

The former owner of the San Francisco 49ers who was convicted of failing to report an extortion attempt.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.