Chiefs player shares emotional last message from Charlie Kirk

The final words exchanged between conservative activist Charlie Kirk and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker have been disclosed by Butker following the tragic shooting at Utah Valley University (UVU) on Wednesday.

In a text message, Kirk quoted from Philippians 3:14, a letter from Paul the Apostle to the Christian church in Philippi, saying: 'I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.' Butker, a devout Catholic, responded with 'On the mission,' along with a prayer emoji and the words 'Thank you.'

Kirk was fatally shot while addressing a crowd at UVU, and the shooter is still at large. Butker expressed gratitude to Kirk for his Christian testimony and leadership, offering prayers for him and his family.

Both Kirk and Butker are well-known figures among young conservatives and have connections with President Donald Trump. Butker was recently appointed to the President's national sports council, which includes other conservative athletes like golfer Bryson DeChambeau and former New York Giants player Lawrence Taylor.

Butker faced controversy last year for discussing gender roles at a Catholic college commencement address. He has since been embraced by the right and established a political action committee advocating for what he terms 'traditional values.'

Kirk had previously defended Butker against criticism, highlighting Butker's commitment to Catholic beliefs and family values. Kirk denounced negative portrayals of Butker in the media, emphasizing his support for the kicker as a devoted family man.