Former NFL Linebacker Sounds Off on Jaden Ivey With Thought-Provoking Message
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

Jaden Ivey dominated headlines on Monday after suddenly becoming a free agent. The Chicago Bulls waived the 24-year-old guard for “conduct detrimental to the team” following remarks he made on social media that sparked controversy.
Ivey had posted Instagram Live videos criticizing the NBA’s support for the LGBTQ community and Pride Month. Former NFL star Emmanuel Acho weighed in on the situation via social media. In an X post, Acho shared that while freedom of speech exists, actions have consequences.
“Jaden Ivey has to understand freedom of speech does not mean freedom of consequence. Also, you serve God. You’re not God. As the son of a pastor, this topic means a lot to me, and I’m praying for Jaden Ivey’s mental health,” Acho wrote on X.
Jaden Ivey has to understand freedom of speech does not mean freedom of consequence.
Also, you serve God. You’re not God.
As the son of a pastor this topic means a lot to me and I’m praying for Jaden Ivey’s mental health.
My full thoughts: pic.twitter.com/CHiUo4aAor
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) March 31, 2026
Over the weekend, Ivey had used Instagram Live to preach his religion to fans. By Monday, he made statements bold enough to cost him his spot on the Bulls roster. Just hours after being waived, he returned to Instagram Live to criticize the Bulls organization. He also commented on Stephen Curry’s religious beliefs while on a flight.
Bulls Coach Responds to Jaden Ivey’s Departure
Bill’s sudden move regarding Jaden Ivey has already put them in the wrong spotlight. After the move, Chicago head coach Billy Donovan offered a detailed response regarding Ivey’s exit from the team.

“We have people from all different backgrounds inside the organization. This goes for players and coaches, everyone in the building. There has always been from the top: we’re all going to work well together. We’re all going to take care of each other. We’re going to accept each other,” Donovan said.
Before being waived, Ivey had already been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025–26 season due to left knee soreness. In his first season with the team, he appeared in just four games for Chicago. He had joined the Bulls after being traded from the Detroit Pistons in February.
