NFL Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher has thrown his support behind Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, praising the WNBA star for speaking her mind on a hot-button issue. The former Chicago Bears linebacker told Fox News Digital that he's a big fan of Cunningham's game and her willingness to say what many are thinking.
Urlacher, known for his hard-hitting style on the field, says he loves Cunningham's aggressive play and unapologetic attitude. "She's great. Bro, she's so fun to watch… It's unbelievable. She's so aggressive. She's fun to watch. I follow her on Instagram. She's got great stuff out there," the Hall of Famer said.
But it's Cunningham's outspoken stance on transgender athletes in women's sports that really caught Urlacher's attention. "She just says what's true. She says common-sense things, and she gets so much backlash. She's like, 'Men should not be playing in women's sports.' Why is that so controversial? I don't get it. I don't understand it," Urlacher added.
Cunningham has been a vocal advocate for protecting the integrity of women's sports. In an ESPN feature, she emphasized her desire to "protect young girls in the locker room" and argued that female athletes "shouldn't have to go against biological men." Her comments have ignited fierce debate, drawing both praise and criticism from fans and fellow athletes alike.
Urlacher admires Cunningham's resolve in the face of backlash. "It's a simple statement. She stood by it. That's what I love about when people say things: Don't back down. If you say something, stand by it. And she said it. She backed it up. She's not backing down, no matter how much heat she gets from certain people," he said, noting that the issue has broad public support. "It's an 80-20 issue. Eighty percent of the country thinks it's true. The 20% is crushing her. Let them. Who cares?"
The NFL legend also highlighted Cunningham's on-court tenacity, comparing her to fellow WNBA rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. "I don't watch the WNBA, but I like those two girls right there," Urlacher said, signaling his appreciation for the new wave of talent in the league. Cunningham's recent adidas sneaker release also sold out quickly, underscoring her growing popularity.
Cunningham herself has remained steadfast. "I said what I said. I think it's kind of common sense. And I think I'll always believe in that. I think it's really important to protect children, and that's little girls who are also involved in that category. I stand on what I said," she told reporters, reiterating her position amid ongoing clashes with figures like Megan Rapinoe.
Urlacher's endorsement adds a powerful voice to Cunningham's corner, as the debate over transgender participation in sports continues to divide opinions. For now, Cunningham shows no signs of backing down, and Urlacher is all in on her game—both on and off the court.
