“Nobody Knew This About Me” – Malcolm Jenkins Drops 5 Bombshells That Redefine His Life Beyond the NFL

Malcolm Jenkins, a two-time Super Bowl champion and three-time Pro Bowl safety, is celebrated for his 13-year NFL career with the New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles. Yet, recent revelations from his memoir and public statements unveil a multifaceted man whose life extends far beyond football. Here are five bombshells that redefine Jenkins’ legacy, showcasing his resilience, activism, and humanity.

1. Playing Through a Concussion

In 2015, Jenkins stunned fans by admitting he hid a concussion during a Philadelphia Eagles game against the Dallas Cowboys, only disclosing it after the 33-27 overtime victory. “The game was moving fast, like I was in a fog,” he recalled, yet he continued making defensive calls without alerting medical staff. The NFL later confirmed no one noticed his condition during the game. Reflecting on the incident, Jenkins said, “It’s something I’ll handle differently now,” acknowledging the risks of concussions. This revelation exposes the intense pressure athletes face to prioritize performance over health.

2. Activism Born from Awakening

Jenkins became a leading voice in the NFL’s social justice movement, raising his fist during the 2016 and 2017 national anthems to protest racial inequality. His activism was sparked by the 2016 police shootings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, amplified by a call to action from NBA stars LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony. Inspired by Muhammad Ali and Martin Luther King Jr., Jenkins co-founded the Players Coalition, securing an $89 million NFL commitment to social justice causes. “Something inside me changed,” he said, though his efforts drew mixed reactions from peers, highlighting the challenges of advocating within the league. 

3. Nearly Dropping the Super Bowl Trophy

In a humorous yet nerve-wracking moment, Jenkins almost dropped the Vince Lombardi Trophy during the Eagles’ 2018 Super Bowl victory parade. Exhausted and “pretty intoxicated” after celebrations, he told GQ, “I woke up like, Maaan, I really almost dropped the trophy.” Amid the parade’s chaos—teammate Jason Kelce crowdsurfing and players biking through crowds—Jenkins laughed off the near-mishap, saying, “It had to be somebody.” This anecdote reveals his ability to embrace imperfection with humor, endearing him to fans.

4. Branded a “Sellout” by Peers

Jenkins’ leadership in the Players Coalition, which negotiated a landmark NFL deal for social justice, sparked controversy. In 2018, Carolina Panthers safety Eric Reid labeled him a “sellout,” accusing Jenkins of sidelining Colin Kaepernick and accepting NFL funds to end anthem protests. The dispute led to a heated pregame confrontation during a Panthers-Eagles matchup. Jenkins defended his approach, emphasizing dialogue over division, but admitted, “Being called a sellout is insulting.” This conflict underscores the complex dynamics of activism and Jenkins’ willingness to face criticism for his principles.

5. Embracing Vulnerability in His Memoir

In 2023, Jenkins announced his memoir, What Winners Won’t Tell You, via X, writing, “I’m not comfortable putting my life on display, but my story may help someone.” The book dives into his fears of failure, the emotional toll of activism, and his transition to new ventures, like his CNN contributor role and The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation for youth development. By sharing his struggles, Jenkins redefines success as authenticity and impact, inspiring young athletes and activists alike.

A Legacy of Impact

Malcolm Jenkins’ bombshells—from risking his health to championing social justice, nearly fumbling a trophy, navigating betrayal, and baring his soul—paint a vivid portrait of a man far beyond his NFL accolades. His courage, humor, and vulnerability cement a legacy that resonates off the field, proving his influence as a leader and storyteller will endure.