#RNC 2020: Football great Herschel Walker throws block for President Trump

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Former NFL player Herschel Walker
Republican National Convention/Handout via REUTERS

Former gridiron great Herschel Walker, who once played for a team owned by President Trump, lined up for the incumbent at the 2020 Republican National Convention on Monday — and swatted down allegations that the commander-in-chief is a racist.

“It hurt my soul to hear the terrible names that people call Donald,” said Walker, who is black. “I take that as a personal insult, that people would think I’ve had a 37-year friendship with a racist.

“Growing up in the Deep South, I’ve seen racism up close. I know what it is. And it isn’t Donald Trump.”

Walker addressed Trump’s hardline stance against athletes who protest social issues by kneeling during the National Anthem.

“Just because someone loves and respects the flag, our National Anthem and our country, it doesn’t mean they don’t care about social justice,” he said. “He shows how much he cares about social justice in the black community through his actions. And his actions speak louder than stickers and slogans on a jersey.”

Walker, a Heisman Trophy winner at the University of Georgia, kicked off his professional career with the short-lived USFL’s New Jersey Generals, owned in 1984 and 1985 by Trump.

“He learned about the history of the team, the players, the coaches, every detail,” said Walker. “I watched him treat janitors, security guards and waiters the same way you would treat a VIP.”

But Trump can also be fierce when in pursuit of his goals, Walker said.

“He leaves nothing on the field,” the retired running back said. “Some people don’t like his style, the way he knocks down obstacles that get in the way of his goals.

“People on the opposing team didn’t like when I ran over them either. But that’s how you get the job done.”