LANDOVER, Md. – As anticipation built for the Washington Commanders’ face-off against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, heightened security was unmistakable. President Donald Trump was set to make history by becoming the first sitting president in almost 50 years to attend an NFL regular-season game.

Members of the U.S. Secret Service, clad in distinctive black uniforms, collaborated with military personnel, police, and additional security to ensure safety both inside and outside Northwest Stadium. Enhanced barriers lined the sidewalks, and certain pathways were cordoned off to control access.

Historically, only two other presidents have attended an NFL regular-season game while in office: Richard Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978. Earlier this year, Trump made headlines as the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl, witnessing the Philadelphia Eagles’ triumph over the Kansas City Chiefs with a score of 40-22.

During the game, Trump was anticipated to share the stands with principal owner Josh Harris, who led the acquisition of the Commanders from Daniel Snyder for approximately $6 billion in 2023.

ESPN reported on Saturday that a White House intermediary had informed the Commanders’ ownership about Trump’s desire to have the club’s upcoming stadium, a part of a nearly $4 billion redevelopment project on the former RFK Stadium site in the nation’s capital, named after him.

“That would surely be a beautiful name,” commented press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Sunday’s visit to Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, would be the latest in a series of high-profile appearances at sporting events by Trump, including golf’s Ryder Cup, auto racing’s Daytona 500 and tennis’ U.S. Open.

“We are honored to welcome President Trump to the game as we celebrate those who have served and continue to serve our country,” Commanders club president Mark Clouse said. “The entire Commanders organization is proud to participate in the NFL’s league-wide Salute to Service initiative, recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans, active-duty service members, and their families this Sunday.”

There was friction between Trump and the NFL during his first presidential term, when he objected to players kneeling during the national anthem to protest social or racial injustice. That movement began in 2016 with then-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

Via social media and other public comments, Trump insisted that players should stand for the national anthem and called on team owners to fire anyone taking a knee.

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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl