Antonio Brown has sparked controversy once again, this time involving the former First Lady Michelle Obama as he compares her to a man by pointing to a recent Minnesota Vikings incident.
The former NFL wide receiver is known for his controversial opinions on social media and this time used X.com, formerly Twitter, as his medium to go after the wife of Barack Obama.
Sharing a photo of the 61-year-old mother-of-two in a Vikings cheerleading uniform, standing in front of a stadium, Brown wrote, “Minnesota Vikings add their 3rd male cheerleader to the roster.”
The caption pokes fun at the inclusion of male cheerleaders in the Vikings’ program, linking it to Obama in a satirical manner and also the ongoing conversation in the NFL regarding gender diversity in cheerleading squads.
The Minnesota Vikings have recently made headlines by integrating more male cheerleaders into their ranks, becoming one of the few NFL teams to do so as earlier this month, the team officially announced Blaze Shiek and Louie Conn as additions to the squad.
While progressive in intent, these moves were met with criticism from some fans who expressed disapproval of male cheerleaders at professional games. In response, the Vikings issued a statement defending their decision, emphasizing the qualifications and dedication of their squad members.
“While many fans may be seeing male cheerleaders for the first time in Vikings games,” Minnesota began via NBC. “Male cheerleaders have been part of previous Vikings teams and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading.
“In 2025, approximately one third of NFL teams have male cheerleaders. Every member of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders program has an impressive dance background and went through the same rigorous audition process.
“Individuals were selected because of their talent, passion for dance and dedication to elevating the game day experience.”
Minnesota Vikings exploring wide receiver trade options
Off the field, the Vikings are also navigating uncertainties at the wide receiver position ahead of the 2025 NFL season as injuries and suspensions have left gaps in their depth chart.
This has prompted the organization to explore trade options, and according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the team is “seriously exploring veteran receivers in the trade market,” although no immediate moves are expected.
Justin Jefferson has returned to practice after a hamstring injury and is expected to play in Week 1 against Chicago. Meanwhile, Jordan Addison will miss the first three games due to a suspension stemming from a 2024 DUI incident, and Jalen Nailor faces a hand injury that may require surgery.
Behind these key players, the roster relies heavily on untested receivers such as Lucky Jackson, Tim Jones, and Jeshaun Jones, which could present a challenge at the U.S. Bank Stadium.
As things stand, Jefferson remains the clear leader in the wide receiver corps following his stellar 2024/25 NFL campaign that was only bettered by the Cincinnati Bengals‘ Ja’Marr Chase.
The 26-year-old produced 1533 yards from 103 receptions for 10 touchdowns in 17 games last time out, whilst he added 58 yards on five receptions in his sole outing in the 2024/25 NFL Playoffs.
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