LB Jack Gibbens Shocks NFL by Skipping FOX & ESPN, Choosing to Interview Local Disabled Reporter on Super Bowl Opening Night

Foxborough, Massachusetts

In a deeply moving gesture during Super Bowl Opening Night, New England Patriots linebacker Jack Gibbens made a powerful statement by skipping interviews with FOX and ESPN, opting instead to grant an exclusive interview with a disabled veteran reporter. The heartwarming moment, shared across social media, has left the NFL community both touched and emotional.

Patriots LB Jack Gibbens sat on the ground during Monday night’s Super Bowl LX media session so that reporter Dave Stevens Speaks could interview him more conveniently. pic.twitter.com/5IqhSbK706

— Football Forever (@fballforeverhq) February 3, 2026

The reporter Gibbens chose was Charles Franklin, a 62-year-old former military veteran who tragically lost the ability to walk after a service-related accident. Despite the challenges he faces, Franklin has continued his career as a respected sports journalist. While major networks eagerly sought Gibbens for interviews, he chose to spend his time with Franklin in what turned out to be a deeply personal and meaningful conversation.

During the interview, Franklin asked Gibbens about his journey throughout the season and what his hopes were for the upcoming Super Bowl. Gibbens opened up, sharing not only his thoughts on football but also the deeper lessons he's learned through his own struggles and perseverance.

“There are always networks and cameras chasing the spotlight, but in this quiet moment, I get to sit with someone who fights every day just to live, someone who has a story far beyond the game. These are the moments I cherish most – where we talk not just about football, but about life and how we can make a difference for each other,” Gibbens said.

This simple yet profound act has not only resonated with the Patriots community but also sparked a wave of admiration throughout the NFL. Gibbens’ decision to take the time to speak with a disabled veteran instead of the usual media outlets reflected his humility and deep respect for those who overcome significant adversity.

La entrevista de Jack Gibbens con el reportero Dave Stevens, quien no tiene piernas:

”Bueno, eres linebacker, estás acostumbrado a sentar a la gente de un golpe, así que gracias por bajar a mi nivel por un momento.” pic.twitter.com/wNpkaYV6Oi

— Nación Patriota (@nacionpatriots) February 3, 2026

The video of the interview quickly went viral, with NFL fans across the country wiping away tears. The gesture highlighted that while football may be about victories on the field, it is also about the victories off the field—how athletes can inspire and connect with others on a personal level.

As Super Bowl LX draws near, fans are focusing not only on the game but on the values brought forth by players like Jack Gibbens. His choice to spotlight a disabled veteran has reminded everyone that true strength is measured not only in athletic ability but in compassion and humanity. The NFL community is sharing and honoring this emotional moment, and it will undoubtedly become one of the most memorable stories of the season.