Ashton Jeanty Fires Back at Engagement Backlash: ‘I Don’t See Color’ – Running Back Responds to Critics With Powerful Message of Love and Equality
Las Vegas — In the wake of his high-profile engagement to longtime girlfriend, model and social media personality Maya Johnson, Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty has found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy. Fans, pundits, and even celebrity commentators took to social media to debate Jeanty’s choice, sparking heated discussions about race, privilege, and public perception.
Speaking candidly during a rare press conference at the Raiders’ training facility, Jeanty addressed the backlash head-on.
“I’ve seen the posts. I’ve read the comments. But here’s the truth: I don’t see color,” Jeanty said, his voice calm but resolute. “Maya has been by my side through everything — the good, the bad, and the chaotic moments. My love for her isn’t about race, it’s about the bond we share, the trust, and the life we’re building together.”
The running back’s engagement, which was announced earlier this month with a stunning ring and a heartfelt social media post, quickly went viral. Fans celebrated, but some critics questioned the relationship dynamics, sparking a wave of debates across platforms. The discussion soon extended beyond sports and celebrity circles, touching on broader cultural conversations about relationships, public image, and personal freedom.
Jeanty, who has consistently maintained a reputation as one of the NFL’s most grounded stars, made it clear that he won’t let social media drama overshadow his personal life.
“People will always have opinions. That’s fine,” Jeanty continued. “But I know who I am, I know what I value, and I know the woman I’m marrying. Nothing else matters.”
Maya Johnson also spoke briefly during the press conference, emphasizing the couple’s shared commitment and support for one another. “Ashton and I have built something real, something lasting. Social media doesn’t define our love — we do,” she said.
Fans have since rallied around the couple, flooding Jeanty’s posts with messages of support and admiration. Hashtags like #AshtonAndMaya, #TrueLoveInLasVegas, and #NoHateJustLove quickly began trending nationwide.
As Jeanty prepares for the upcoming NFL season, it’s clear that he won’t let personal attacks derail his focus. The running back’s statement has not only addressed the backlash but also cemented his stance as a leader who speaks with honesty, integrity, and heart — both on and off the field.
One thing is certain: Ashton Jeanty’s love life just became as talked-about as his game-day performances, and he’s proving that some battles are fought with courage and conviction, not with controversy.
Puka Nacua Breaks Silence: “NFL Doesn’t Care About Your Pain — You Have to Play Anyway”
In an emotional revelation that’s shaking the NFL to its core, Puka Nacua of the
Nacua, who briefly played alongside Kneeland during his time with the Los Angeles Rams, called the loss of his former teammate “devastating” and a stark reminder of the unspoken pressure NFL players face. But it wasn’t just about the grief — it was about the expectation to perform no matter what:
"Everyone thinks the NFL is just about football. But the truth is, they don’t care what you're feeling. They just expect you to show up and play. We’re told to shut off our emotions, but that’s not realistic. I feel like we’re not allowed to grieve the loss of a brother because we have to get ready for a game. That’s the cold reality of this league."
A Wake-Up Call to Fans: "We're Not Machines"
Nacua’s shocking admission sheds light on the emotional toll that NFL players endure, often sacrificing their own mental well-being for the sake of the game. As the
"We’ve got to put our feelings aside for the fans, for our coaches, and for our teammates. But losing someone like Marshawn—it’s like losing a brother. It’s not just a game. People don’t understand how much time we spend with each other, and now I have to focus on beating the Eagles while mourning my friend. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do."
A Brotherhood in Crisis?
As the NFL grapples with the tragic loss of Kneeland, Nacua's powerful words are raising serious questions about the emotional cost of playing professional football.
Is the NFL a family, or is it a brutal machine that demands players sacrifice everything — including their emotions — for the game? The death of Kneeland is only the latest in a long line of heart-wrenching moments that show just how much players endure off the field.
