The National Football League (NFL) has announced plans to honor the United States’ 250th birthday with a series of commemorative tributes starting in 2026. The league will incorporate special game balls, field decorations, and event-based commemorations into its programming throughout the season. Notably, the final games of the season will feature custom footballs adorned with the word ‘America’ and the number 250, along with red, white, and blue accents. The NFL’s celebration will extend to playoff events, including the Super Bowl, where referees will receive commemorative coins that will later be auctioned off. A White House event has also been planned as part of the festivities, reflecting a broader collaborative effort with the task force focused on American heritage.
Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized the connection between the evolution of the NFL and the spirit of the American people, framing the celebrations as an opportunity to honor the nation’s history and vision for the future. The NFL will also be collaborating with broadcast partners to perform a special rendition of the patriotic song ‘God Bless America’ during a Week 18 game, ensuring that the event captures the collective spirit of the American public. Additionally, the league has planned a separate celebration at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, further expanding on the theme of national unity and pride.
Fans will have the opportunity to purchase special sideline apparel for playoff games, as well as commemorative items that reflect the NFL’s dedication to commemorating the nation’s milestone. The commemorative coins, which will be used by referees during the playoffs, will be auctioned off for collectors seeking to own a piece of this historic celebration. The NFL’s collaboration with the White House’s Salute to America 250 Task Force underscores the significance of this event as a national tribute rather than just a league-specific commemoration.
This commemorative effort is set to align with other events planned for the 250th birthday, including a UFC event set to take place on June 14 at the White House South Lawn, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. While the UFC event is a separate initiative, the NFL’s contributions to the broader celebration highlight the multi-sport collaboration in honoring American heritage. The NFL’s decision to commemorate this milestone is part of its continued efforts to engage with national events and foster a sense of unity through sports. As the season progresses, fans can look forward to a wide array of celebrations that will reflect the pride in American history and the unifying power of the sport.