Skip to content

Hopkins omits Clemson in player intros due to 'oppressive' school figure

Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Arizona Cardinals wideout DeAndre Hopkins revealed Monday why he doesn't mention his alma mater, Clemson, during player intros on NFL broadcasts.

Hopkins shared in an Instagram post that he's bothered that the school celebrates John C. Calhoun - a slave owner and pro-slavery politician - with its honors program.

"I felt this oppressive figure during my time at Clemson and purposely do not mention the university's name before NFL games because of it," Hopkins wrote.

View this post on Instagram

As we watch everything happening in the world, I want to bring up something that has been bothering me for a long time in my community. Clemson University still honors the name of well known slave owner and pro-slavery politician John C. Calhoun on its buildings, signs, and in the name of its honors program. I felt this oppressive figure during my time at Clemson and purposely do not mention the University’s name before NFL games because of it. I am joining the voices of the students and faculty who have restarted this petition to rename the Calhoun Honors College. I urge all Clemson students, football players, and alumni to join us, so the next generation of young Black leaders can be proud of the institution they graduate from. Now is the time for change. Please help us by signing and sharing this petition here: tinyurl.com/calhounpetition

A post shared by @ deandrehopkins on

Instead, Hopkins names Daniel High School on "Sunday Night Football" broadcasts.

Hopkins and former Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson have signed a petition to rename the school's honors college.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox