🚨 BREAKING:
Jets’ D.J. Reed Sparks Controversy After Refusing to Celebrate Pride Month — Says “WOKE” Culture Doesn’t Deserve Recognition

Another storm is brewing in the NFL — and this time, it’s New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed who finds himself at the center of a Pride Month controversy that’s rapidly escalating.

During a routine media availability on June 6th, Reed was asked about the Jets’ Pride Month partnerships and whether he would be taking part in any upcoming team-sponsored LGBTQ+ events. His response was blunt, unapologetic — and instantly divisive:

“I’m not here to promote WOKE agendas. Pride Month isn’t something I celebrate. Not everything needs a flag and a parade. Some things are just being pushed too far.”

Within hours, his comments made the rounds on social media, triggering a wave of outrage, debate, and demands for accountability. Fans, activists, and even some fellow athletes took to X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram to voice their dismay.

One viral post read:

“D.J. Reed plays in one of the most diverse cities in the world and thinks this is acceptable? Absolutely disgraceful.”

Another user replied:

“You don’t have to celebrate Pride, but dismissing it as WOKE nonsense is harmful, period.”

By nightfall, hashtags like #DJSilenceIsLoud, #PrideNotPolitics, and #BenchDJSoon were trending.
Meanwhile, conservative commentators and anti-woke influencers rallied behind Reed, praising him for “speaking truth” and “refusing to bow to the mob.”

“He said what many are too afraid to say. Not every player needs to be an activist,” one high-profile podcaster posted.

But the backlash kept mounting.

The New York Jets released a carefully worded statement late Friday:

“The New York Jets stand with the LGBTQ+ community and are proud to support Pride Month. While we recognize our players’ individual beliefs, we remain committed to inclusivity and respect for all.”

The NFL has yet to comment officially, but sources close to the league office say executives are monitoring the situation “very closely.”

LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have called on the league and the Jets to take concrete action. One joint statement from GLAAD and Athlete Ally said:

“When players use their platform to marginalize others, they’re not just expressing opinions — they’re sending a message that LGBTQ+ people are unwelcome in sports.”

Reed has not issued a formal apology, and in fact, took to his Instagram Story later that evening with a simple black screen and white text:

“I stand by what I believe. Period.”

The post sparked even further division — with critics accusing him of doubling down on harmful rhetoric, while supporters claimed he was being unfairly targeted for “having values.”

As Pride Month continues, the NFL now faces a familiar dilemma:
How far does freedom of expression go — especially when it conflicts with the league’s message of unity and inclusion?

And for D.J. Reed, the bigger question may be: Will standing by his words cost more than just his reputation?

This story is still developing…