In April, Barkley drew criticism from fans for golfing with Trump and then joining the president for a helicopter flight before the championship-winning Eagles’ official White House visit. The running back clapped back at critics on social media, noting that he also golfed with former President Barack Obama several months prior.

Philadelphia Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley announced Monday that he declined President Donald Trump’s invitation to serve on the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. Trump announced the revitalized council last Thursday as part of an executive order that also reinstated the Presidential Fitness Test.

Philadelphia Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley said Monday he was surprised to learn he had been named to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition because he had turned down the opportunity earlier this year.