Philadelphia, PA — May 23, 2025
In a powerful tribute to one of the most dominant and revered defensive players in NFL history, Reggie White, known as “The Minister of Defense,” has been immortalized in bronze. The Philadelphia Eagles and the NFL unveiled a majestic statue outside Lincoln Financial Field on Friday, commemorating White’s legendary career and his profound impact both on and off the field.
A Lasting Legacy Cast in Bronze
The statue, standing over eight feet tall, captures White in a signature moment of power and intensity — arms raised, mid-roar, after sacking a quarterback. Sculpted by renowned sports artist Brian Hanlon, the piece is not just a tribute to White’s football greatness, but also to his leadership, faith, and humanitarian spirit.
“Reggie was more than just a football player,” said Eagles Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie. “He was a force of nature, a man of unshakable conviction, and a true ambassador of the game. This statue ensures that future generations will know his story and feel his presence every time they walk into this stadium.”
The Minister of Defense: A Career to Remember
Reggie White played 15 seasons in the NFL, including eight iconic years with the Philadelphia Eagles (1985–1992). A two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, White amassed 198 career sacks, a mark that still ranks among the all-time best.
He was:
•13× Pro Bowl selection
•8× First-team All-Pro
•NFL 100 All-Time Team member
•Super Bowl XXXI Champion with the Green Bay Packers
•Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006
Known for his devastating combination of strength, speed, and technique, White revolutionized the defensive end position. But it was his off-the-field persona — as an ordained minister, a vocal advocate for his community, and a mentor to young players — that earned him the nickname “The Minister of Defense.”
A Day of Tribute
The unveiling ceremony was attended by White’s family, former teammates, NFL officials, and hundreds of fans. His widow, Sara White, delivered a heartfelt speech:
“Reggie played the game with passion, but he lived life with purpose. This statue means his story lives on — not just as a player, but as a man who stood for faith, family, and justice.”
Several former teammates, including Randall Cunningham and Jerome Brown’s family, were present and reflected on White’s leadership during a pivotal era in Eagles history.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also addressed the crowd:
“Reggie White set the standard. He was a giant in every sense — in performance, character, and impact. Today we honor him not just with a statue, but with our commitment to the values he lived by.”
More Than a Monument
The base of the statue is engraved with White’s jersey number (92), his career accolades, and one of his most famous quotes:
“God gave me the ability to play football, and that’s what I’m going to do, to the best of my ability — to honor Him.”
This tribute joins a growing number of efforts by the NFL to preserve the legacies of its greatest icons, ensuring that players like White — who left a permanent mark on the game — are remembered not just as champions, but as changemakers.
Reggie White’s legacy now stands tall in South Philadelphia — a permanent reminder that greatness in the NFL is measured not just in stats, but in strength of character.