BREAKING: Jeffrey Lurie Slams MrBeast’s Controversial ‘NFL Buyout’ Stunt – Calls It a Disrespectful Attempt to Undermine the League’s Legacy for Views
Philadelphia, PA – Jeffrey Lurie, the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles, has spoken out against the viral ad released by internet sensation MrBeast in which he claims to have “purchased the entire NFL” as part of a promotion for a free livestream event. Lurie, who has always championed the integrity of the NFL and its teams, has called out the video as nothing more than a publicity stunt aimed at grabbing attention without regard for the sport’s legacy.
In the ad, MrBeast, known for his over-the-top stunts and philanthropy, exaggerates his involvement with the NFL, saying, “I’ve bought the NFL, and now you can watch the entire league for free!” The video quickly went viral, with millions of views across social media platforms. While many of MrBeast’s followers took the video in stride as another outlandish stunt, Lurie’s response was swift and critical.
"I understand the value of entertainment, but to trivialize the NFL, its players, coaches, and fans like this is disrespectful," Lurie said in a statement to the media. "The NFL isn’t a game for sale—it’s a community built on passion, tradition, and respect. MrBeast may have a platform, but this stunt crosses a line, turning something sacred into a cheap grab for attention. The NFL deserves better than this.”
Lurie’s remarks come as the NFL continues to make strides in its own efforts to connect with fans through digital content and expanded access, though never at the cost of the league’s integrity. While the NFL has embraced new ways to engage fans, including streaming options for games, Lurie believes that the NFL’s value should not be reduced to clickbait and sensationalism.
The video, which has now sparked a firestorm of debate, has drawn mixed reactions across social media. Some fans found it humorous and entertaining, while others, like Lurie, believe it undermines the seriousness and legacy of professional sports. “This is about more than just a viral moment,” Lurie continued. “It’s about the values that make the NFL what it is today—commitment, respect, and dedication. This kind of stunt only cheapens the sport and distracts from the real issues we face as a league.”
While MrBeast has built his career on shocking stunts and viral videos, his latest move has raised eyebrows across the sports world. Critics argue that while his philanthropic efforts are commendable, this particular ad sends the wrong message about the value of sports and the organizations that run them.
MrBeast, known for his large-scale giveaways and challenges, has yet to respond to Lurie’s criticism, but his past track record suggests he may brush off the controversy in favor of the attention his video generated.
For Lurie and many others, however, the damage is already done. “It’s one thing to joke around or promote a charity,” Lurie concluded, “but when you start playing with the integrity of the game, that’s where I draw the line.”
Commanders star shares the perfect lesson learned from suspension
ASHBURN, Va. – Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne had to sit out his team’s Week 11 loss to the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, Spain, before entering their Week 12 bye week.
That makes his Week 13 return to the field significant as he looks to put his one-game suspension behind him and get back to showing everyone why he was praised as a leader on the Commanders’ team before the season.
Perhaps more importantly, he’ll get back to helping to secure the middle of the Washington defensive line.
A Significant Return
“It's going to be a fun game, man. I'm happy to be back,” Payne said this week as he ramps up his efforts to face the Denver Broncos.
The combination of fresh legs, new play-calling, and energy coming out of the bye week promises to produce some fun football to be part of, and for fans to watch, Payne promises.
For head coach Dan Quinn, he’s just looking to get back to normal as much as possible.
“It was difficult, from the time we knew this suspension could take place all the way up until the appeal that was X minutes before takeoff, and so it went all the way to the wire,” Quinn recalled.
'Handle It Right Then and There'
Of course, with every suspension comes the hope that a player will have learned how to handle the situation better. When dealing with the heart and soul of a competitor, however, that solution may not be the passive response we expect.
“Do it in the moment,” Payne said he learned from the suspension. “Don't wait until they come talking sh–. Handle it right then and there.”
In the Commanders’ Week 10 loss to the Detroit Lions, receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown slapped Payne similarly to the way the defensive tackle did to the receiver a couple of plays later. St. Brown’s actions didn’t draw a flag or suspension. Payne’s did.
“So, you discuss, you learn, you want to make sure the lessons, what can you take from these moments. So, not only for him but for him to be able to pass that along to someone else in that same space,” Quinn said about lessons learned from the experience. “But we are pumped to have him back, man, that's a big deal for us.”
Focused on Chaos
With Payne back on the field, he’ll get to return to what he does best, causing chaos for opposing offenses. And that is where his focus is.
“I can control my effort and the way that I play and my technique. Like I said, just the way that I come out. My mindset and how physical I am.”
If there are any residual frustrations from what happened a few weeks ago, Payne will look to express those–within the rules, of course–against the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night football this weekend.
