NFL fans remain divided over Demarcus Ware’s rendition of the national anthem as the former Cowboys star performs it before his own Hall of Fame immortalization
- DeMarcus Ware sang the National Anthem for the Hall of Fame Game
- He explained afterwards that he had a moving reason to get up
- DailyMail.com provides all the latest international sports news
Demarcus Ware left no stone unturned when it came to his Hall of Fame candidacy, but the same can’t be said for his rendition of the national anthem on Thursday night.
With the Jets and Browns facing each other in the Hall of Fame (Preseason) Game, Ware got a chance to sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” before being tapped in Canton on Saturday.
And his performance left viewers divided.
The former Cowboys and Broncos linebacker told the Dallas morning news that “this is the most nervous thing I’ve ever been” and it showed early on in his portrayal.
Ware’s voice rang out for the first 30 seconds or so of what turned out to be a two-plus minute performance, and not everyone was so forgiving online.
DeMarcus Ware divided opinion with his rendition of the national anthem on Thursday
Not everyone supported DeMarcus Ware’s efforts to sing the national anthem
“I’m still trying to figure out what key he sang this in,” one fan said on Twitter.
“Even when they don’t play, the Cowboys still find a way to lose,” added another from Ware, who spent nine seasons in Dallas.
Another fan was a tad more generous.
“I’ll give him credit for being brave enough to sing in front of a national audience, but – lord help me – that was tough and it took forever.”
Some fans even compared his performance to previous infamous renditions sung by Carl Lewis and Fergie.
However, others were much more positive after Ware’s rendition, as he seemed to find his feet as the song progressed.
‘Impressive!! One of the hardest songs to ever sing… he did it great!! What a great way to start the season!!’
“One of the most beautiful renditions I’ve ever heard,” said another.
Another was a little surprised and said, “He actually did a really good job!” along with a fire emoji.
Other fans were much more supportive of Ware’s efforts to sing the historic tune
Regardless of Ware’s performance opinion, he had a touching reason to try the notoriously difficult track.
Ware’s former Broncos teammate, Demaryius Thomas, died of complications from seizures in December 2021, according to the Fulton County medical examiner.
And “this was actually why I ended up doing it,” Ware told NBC afterwards.
‘Cause me and Demaryius would be on the sidelines to sing the national anthem. He’s not here now and I knew he’d be with me when I was singing.
“And so it meant so much, not just singing the national anthem, but that moment I especially needed for his speech.”
Ware, a nine-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, retired in 2016 after winning his first and only Super Bowl with Denver the season before.