Nike‘s congratulatory message to the Philadelphia Eagles following their Super Bowl LIX victory has sparked controversy, with many fans believing it contained a subtle dig at Patrick Mahomes.
The advertisement, which featured highlights from the Eagles’ championship season, was set to Bein’ Green, the classic song by Kermit the Frog. Given that Mahomes‘ voice has long been compared to the beloved Muppet character, many saw the choice as intentional.
The ad, posted on social media with the caption “It’s Good to be Green,” was meant to celebrate Philadelphia’s dominant 40-22 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. However, it immediately caught the attention of NFL fans who felt the Kermit reference was more than just a tribute to the Eagles’ colors.
For years, Mahomes has been teased about his voice, which has an uncanny resemblance to Kermit the Frog. Even his rivals have played into the joke-most notably, a Las Vegas Raiders player went viral last season after dressing a Kermit puppet in a Mahomes jersey during training camp.
Mahomes himself has acknowledged the comparisons, brushing them off by saying, “Stuff like that happens.”
Nike has not responded to speculation regarding the ad’s intent, but fans on social media have already drawn their own conclusions.
One person commented: “I’m in tears for the sentiment and in tears at the absolute roast of Paddy.” Another added: “Using Kermit for this was diabolical.”
A more direct reaction read: “Using Kermit’s voice is the nastiest of works! Knowing he sounds like Pat Mahomes… just know Nike got villainous collaborations in the works.”
Regardless of whether it was a playful nod or an intentional jab, the ad added an unexpected layer of discussion following the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory.
Mahomes reflects on Chiefs’ Super Bowl disappointment
While Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs aimed to make history as the first team to secure three consecutive Super Bowl titles, the Eagles put an end to that pursuit with a commanding performance.
Mahomes finished the game with 257 passing yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions, but he struggled under relentless pressure from the Eagles’ defense. Philadelphia sacked him six times-the most in his career-and one of his interceptions was returned for a touchdown by Cooper DeJean.
Following the defeat, Mahomes took to social media, sharing his thoughts with Chiefs fans: “I let y’all down today. I’ll always continue to work and try and learn and be better for it.”
He also expressed gratitude, adding: “Want to give thanks to God for every opportunity he has given me. We will be back.”
With the season now over, Mahomes and the Chiefs will regroup and set their sights on another Super Bowl run next year-whether or not Nike continues to play into the Kermit jokes.
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