Garrett Crochet Responds to Jason Kelce’s Candid Statement Exposing Erika Kirk's Speech at Ole Miss as a Calculated Fundraising Stunt
Garrett Crochet, the star pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, has responded to Jason Kelce's recent candid statement, which criticized Erika Kirk's speech at Ole Miss as a well-calculated fundraising stunt. Crochet, who has been vocal about the impact of athletes’ activism and fundraising efforts, didn’t hold back in his defense of Kirk, challenging the narrative presented by Kelce.
In an interview, Crochet addressed Kelce’s comments, which had caused a stir in the sports community. “I think Jason missed the point,” Crochet said. “Erika’s intentions were about more than just raising money — she’s trying to make a real impact. The way people are framing this as a ‘calculated stunt’ doesn’t do justice to the work she’s doing. We should be focusing on the cause, not attacking people who are trying to make a difference.”
Kelce, in his statement, had described Kirk’s speech at Ole Miss as a “calculated move,” suggesting that her public appearance and the subsequent fundraising efforts were part of a larger scheme to boost visibility and financial support for her own initiatives. According to Kelce, the timing of the speech and its highly publicized nature made it clear that Kirk was using the moment to further her own goals, rather than genuinely advancing the causes she spoke about.
Crochet, however, emphasized the importance of supporting athletes and activists who use their platforms to address important issues, even if their actions also involve raising money. “People like Erika Kirk have the platform, and they’re trying to do good with it,” he argued. “Whether it’s through a speech or a fundraising effort, if it leads to real change, then it’s worth it. We should be looking at the bigger picture here.”
Crochet also pushed back against the idea that athletes and activists should be judged solely on their public appearances or fundraising activities. “We can’t keep judging people for using their voice,” he said. “Everyone who’s trying to raise awareness for a cause or fight for something important is doing the work. Let’s support those efforts, not tear them down.”
As the debate surrounding Kirk’s speech continues, Crochet’s comments highlight a broader issue within the sports and activism communities: the fine line between visibility, fundraising, and genuine social impact. While Kelce’s perspective is rooted in skepticism, Crochet and others believe it’s important to view these efforts as part of a larger movement for change, not as calculated moves for personal gain.
“I’ll stand by people like Erika, who are trying to make a real difference,” Crochet concluded. “And I think we all should.”
Bills Legend Eric Moulds Sells Final Game-Worn Jersey to Support Teammate Battling Parkinson’s Disease
Buffalo, NY – November 1, 2025
In a gesture that’s brought a wave of emotion across Bills Mafia, legendary wide receiver Eric Moulds — the shining star of Buffalo’s offense through a difficult decade — has auctioned off the
game-worn jersey from his final season to support a former teammate now facing the hardest battle of his life.
For fans who remember the late ’90s and early 2000s, Moulds was the lone constant in an era of instability. Known for his precision routes, contested catches, and quiet leadership, he became the franchise’s beacon of hope through years of quarterback turnover. From 1996 to 2005, he posted
675 receptions, 9,096 yards, and 48 touchdowns, including a historic 100-catch season in 2002, earning three Pro Bowl selections and a permanent place among the Bills’ all-time greats.
That former teammate is Takeo Spikes, the relentless linebacker who commanded Buffalo’s defense with passion and authority. During his time with the team (2003–2005), Spikes recorded over 200 tackles
, earned two Pro Bowls and an All-Pro selection in 2003, and became known as the emotional core of the defense — the “defensive quarterback” who brought fire to every down.
💬 “We carried this team through the storms — him on defense, me on offense,” Moulds said quietly. “Now that he’s fighting something far tougher than any Sunday battle, I want this jersey to fight for him — the same way he fought for Buffalo.”
Spikes, beloved for his intensity and leadership, has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a neurological disorder that has gradually affected his movement and coordination. Despite the diagnosis, those close to him say his trademark energy and optimism haven’t faded — he continues to train, mentor young athletes, and advocate for player health awareness.
Moulds’ decision to sell his final jersey isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about brotherhood. The proceeds from the auction will go directly to the Bills Alumni Health & Wellness Fund
, supporting Spikes’ treatment and ongoing medical research into Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative conditions among retired NFL players.
💬 “This jersey carried our pride, our pain, and our fight,” Moulds reflected.
