Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers became the butt of online jokes after his attempt to promote the NFL Draft in Green Bay with a football toss that showcased more enthusiasm than athletic ability.

At a Glance

• Governor Tony Evers posted a video throwing a football to promote the NFL Draft in Green Bay, but his awkward form drew widespread mockery
• The clip shows Evers in a Green Bay Packers polo attempting to throw a football to himself in what critics called a “cringe-worthy” performance
• The governor’s athletic display earned him the satirical title of “No. 1 overall pick in the Political Dork draft”
• The NFL Draft in Green Bay is a major event for Wisconsin, making Evers’ promotional effort well-intentioned despite its execution

Governor’s Spiral Falls Flat

As Green Bay prepares to host the 2025 NFL Draft with considerable fanfare, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers decided to join the excitement by posting a video of himself throwing a football. The Democratic governor, sporting a Green Bay Packers polo shirt, attempted to demonstrate his football skills but instead created what many online commentators have labeled a “cringe-dorky” moment. The video shows Evers awkwardly tossing a football to himself in what appears to be a promotional effort gone awry, with his throwing form drawing immediate attention for all the wrong reasons.

The governor’s football skills quickly became fodder for mockery across social media platforms. Critics pounced on the unimpressive spiral and overall awkward athletic display, with some comparing his technique to that of an inexperienced child rather than the leader of a state known for its passionate football culture. The contrast between Evers’ enthusiasm and his execution highlighted the risks public figures take when attempting sports-related stunts that don’t align with their natural abilities.

Draft Excitement Overshadowed

Lost in the wave of ridicule was Evers’ genuine attempt to celebrate a significant event for Wisconsin. The NFL Draft in Green Bay marks an important economic and cultural moment for the state, particularly in the home of the storied Packers franchise. With the draft stage set at Lambeau Field, local businesses and football fans have been eagerly anticipating the influx of visitors and national attention. Evers’ video was intended to channel this enthusiasm, though its execution ultimately distracted from the message he hoped to convey.

The preparations for the NFL Draft have been extensive, transforming Lambeau Field into a showcase venue for one of the league’s premier off-season events. Local media have documented the construction of the draft stage, the red carpet area, and the green room where top prospects will await their selection. These developments represent a source of pride for Wisconsin residents and football fans, regardless of their political affiliations or their governor’s throwing ability.

Political Ramifications

For Evers, the mockery following his football throw adds to what critics describe as a series of public relations missteps. According to The Federalist, Evers has been criticized for policies including “vetoing a bill that would have saved female high school athletes from having to compete against biological males” and for his handling of public education in the state. The football video has become another point of contention for his political opponents, who have used the moment to question his judgment and public image management.

The incident serves as a reminder of how seemingly innocuous attempts at relating to constituents can backfire in the age of social media. What Evers likely intended as a light-hearted show of state pride became ammunition for political opponents and social media commentators. The governor’s office has not issued any formal response to the reaction, seemingly choosing to let the moment pass rather than drawing further attention to it.

Wisconsin’s Football Pride

Despite the governor’s athletic performance, Wisconsin’s football culture remains strong and vibrant. The state’s deep connection to the Packers franchise transcends politics, with fans from across the political spectrum united in their passion for the team. The NFL Draft coming to Green Bay represents a recognition of this football heritage and the significance of Lambeau Field in American sports culture. Local businesses and tourism officials anticipate a substantial economic boost from the event, with hotels, restaurants, and retailers preparing for an influx of visitors.

As the draft approaches, attention will likely shift away from the governor’s spiral and toward the selections made by the Packers and other NFL teams. For Wisconsin residents, particularly those in Green Bay, the excitement of hosting such a prominent sporting event outweighs any momentary embarrassment caused by their governor’s athletic display. While Tony Evers may not be remembered for his football prowess, his enthusiasm for a major state event, however awkwardly expressed, reflects his engagement with Wisconsin traditions.