On September 11, 2025, Charlie Rock, a communications coordinator for the Carolina Panthers, was fired for posting an insensitive Instagram story mocking Charlie Kirk’s fatal shooting the previous day. The post included a photo of Kirk with the caption, “Why are y’all sad? Your man said it was worth it…,” which sparked outrage.
The Panthers quickly responded, issuing a statement that clarified Rock’s views were his own and that the organization does not condone violence. They emphasized their commitment to respect and decency. Importantly, the NFL as a league did not make any public statement or take action regarding the incident.
In a similar situation, the Joe Burrow Foundation, established by NFL quarterback Joe Burrow, also faced scrutiny after a board member, Ted Berry, posted insensitive comments about Kirk’s death. The foundation acted swiftly, terminating Berry’s position, explaining that his actions did not align with the organization’s mission of accountability and respect.
These isolated incidents highlight the growing trend of organizations taking swift action against inappropriate remarks following sensitive events, especially on social media. It’s clear that companies, including those connected to the NFL, are holding individuals accountable for their actions, aiming to maintain a standard of professionalism and respect in all communications.
These events also underscore how quickly social media actions can affect a person’s career, particularly when they involve divisive or controversial issues. However, it is essential to recognize that these actions were taken by individual organizations, not the NFL as a whole. The league has not issued any official response to these incidents.
On September 11, 2025, Charlie Rock, a communications coordinator for the Carolina Panthers,
