NFL Requests Removal of Brian Dawkins Video from DHS Immigration Post

The NFL confirmed on Monday that it has requested the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to remove a video featuring highlights of Hall of Fame safety Brian Dawkins from a social media post related to a report about a caravan of immigrants approaching the U.S. border. On Sunday, the verified X account of the DHS shared a report of the purported caravan, accompanied by the comment, "Our time has come," and a 39-second clip showcasing Dawkins delivering impactful hits. NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy stated, "The league requested DHS take down the video." Approximately two hours after the initial post, the DHS responded in the comments with a still photo of Dawkins and the caption, "The Border Is Closed." As of early Monday afternoon, both posts remained online. In a post on X, Dawkins expressed that he had not granted permission for his name, image, and likeness to be used by anyone outside of his current business dealings. He also shared a video in which he appeared to be smiling and laughing about the situation. The Times reached out to the DHS to inquire whether it had sought the NFL's permission to use the content, if it planned to comply with the league's request, and the reasoning behind using Dawkins' imagery. The department's response included a reference to Dawkins' nickname, "Weapon X." The DHS stated, "DHS is playing lockdown defense at the border. We will use every Weapon at our disposal, from A to X, to keep Americans safe." The United States Border Patrol is reportedly tracking a migrant caravan that departed San Pedro Sula, Honduras on September 20, 2026. The Border Patrol is working with international partners to monitor the caravan's movement. The agency reminded migrants that under the leadership of President Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, the border has remained closed and secured for the past 16 months. It warned that anyone attempting to illegally enter the United States will be apprehended, prosecuted, and removed from the country.