Social Media Is Destroying Philadelphia Eagles Fans For Their Actions During The ‘Black National Anthem’ Before Season Opener vs. Cowboys SEE MORE 👇

The Philadelphia Eagles’ highly anticipated season opener against the Dallas Cowboys was already guaranteed to be one of the most intense matchups of the year. But before kickoff, a pregame tradition ignited a firestorm online—and this time, it wasn’t about the football.

As part of the NFL’s continued initiative to highlight inclusivity, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” widely referred to as the Black National Anthem, was performed ahead of the Eagles-Cowboys clash. However, what unfolded in the stands among some Eagles fans has now become the center of viral outrage.

Eyewitnesses and broadcast footage showed a portion of the Philadelphia crowd booing, jeering, and remaining seated during the performance, sparking immediate backlash across social media. While many fans respectfully stood in silence, clips of the negative reactions quickly spread on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, with users calling the display “shameful,” “disrespectful,” and “embarrassing for the city.”

One viral post read:

> “Philly loves to say they’re the best fanbase in football, but what I just saw during the Black National Anthem is disgusting. Absolute lack of respect.”

Another wrote:

> “Eagles fans will boo Santa Claus and now this? Beyond unacceptable.”

The criticism hasn’t been limited to rival fanbases. Even self-identified Eagles supporters voiced disappointment, insisting that the moment was bigger than football and that their fellow fans missed an opportunity to show unity on a national stage.

The incident also reignited ongoing debates around the inclusion of the song at NFL games. Supporters argue that it highlights the league’s efforts to embrace diversity and acknowledge Black history, while critics continue to question its place in sports ceremonies.

Regardless of where the debate lands, one thing is clear: the behavior of some Eagles fans has overshadowed the night’s kickoff. Instead of celebrating a hard-fought NFC East rivalry game, much of the postgame conversation is focused on Philadelphia’s crowd and the optics of their reaction.

As the season continues, the Eagles organization and its fanbase may face more scrutiny—not for what happens on the field, but for the actions and attitudes displayed off it.