Charlie Kirk’s death draws reaction from Yankees, across sports world

The New York Yankees held a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk before their game against the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday night, hours after the right-wing activist was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University.

It was one of many reactions to the shooting from around the sports world as current and former athletes condemned the violent act.

New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, who was born in Utah, posted an Instagram reel in which he wrote: “Praying for him and his family. Charlie did great things for our country!! Political Violence NEEDS TO STOP!! Pray for our country man. This is disgusting and Sad!!!”

Kirk, 31, was a highly outspoken activist who co-founded the conservative advocacy group Turning Point USA. He was also a stalwart supporter of Donald Trump’s first presidential campaign and eventually became a part of his inner circle. Kirk was especially popular with young men, and he proved adept at using social media to further his message.

He was critical of diversity efforts, and he made numerous inflammatory statements about gay people and minorities. Yet over the years, his popularity and influence only grew.

“Doesn’t matter where you land on in the political landscape. Violence like this is never acceptable,” former New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman wrote on X.

Doesn’t matter where you land in the political landscape. Violence like this is never acceptable.

Praying for the family.

— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) September 10, 2025

Some of the current and former athletes who reacted Wednesday — like Harrison Butker, Tim Tebow and Curt Schilling — are known for their conservative views.

“Charlie was an optimist! He was leading a revival of conservative Christian values and the happiness it could lead to! Charlie is irreplaceable!” Auburn’s men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl wrote on X.

President Trump is expected to be in attendance at Yankee Stadium on Thursday to mark the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

(Photo of the main scoreboard at Yankee Stadium during a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk before Wednesday’s game: Vincent Carchietta / Imagn Images)