A Philadelphia Eagles fan, Ryan Caldwell, faces a ban from Lincoln Financial Field and job termination after a viral misogynistic rant against a Green Bay Packers fan. Caldwell's employer condemned his behavior, and Caldwell later apologized. The incident highlights ongoing issues with fan conduct at Eagles games.
A Philadelphia Eagles fan who unleashed a misogynistic tirade against a female Green Bay Packers supporter during Sunday night’s NFC wild-card game has been banned from Lincoln Financial Field and dismissed from his job, officials confirmed Tuesday.
The incident, captured on cellphone video, unfolded as the Eagles secured a 22-10 victory over the Packers in South Philadelphia. The footage showed the man, clad in an Eagles jacket, leaning over and hurling verbal abuse at the female fan sitting in the row ahead. Despite the relentless tirade, the woman refrained from engaging with him.
Following online scrutiny, the man was identified as Ryan Caldwell, an employee of New Jersey-based management consulting firm BCT Partners. By late Tuesday, the company announced Caldwell had been terminated.
Employer Condemns Behavior
BCT Partners founder Randal Pinkett, known for winning Season 4 of
The Apprentice , expressed his dismay in an interview with NBC News.
“The language was vile, disgusting, and unacceptable,” Pinkett said. “It stands in stark contrast to our company’s values of inclusion, respect, and dignity. While we have parted ways with Mr. Caldwell, we extended grace and support, hoping he learns and grows from this incident.”
Caldwell Issues Apology
In a statement to NBC News on Wednesday, Caldwell expressed remorse for his actions.
“While attending Sunday’s game to support my beloved Eagles, an incident escalated beyond banter with nearby Packers fans. In the heat of the moment, I used unforgivable language toward Ms. Ally Keller. I sincerely apologize to Ms. Keller, my wife, family, friends, former employer, colleagues, Packers fans, Eagles fans, and the city of Philadelphia.”
Target of the Tirade Speaks Out
Ally Keller, the fan targeted by Caldwell’s remarks, recounted the experience alongside her fiancé, Alex Basara.
The couple initially enjoyed the game and engaged in friendly banter with Eagles fans. However, as the Eagles’ lead grew, Caldwell’s comments became increasingly hostile.
“He started with playful jabs, but it got worse as the game went on,” Basara said. “Eventually, his remarks turned nasty and personal.”
Keller described a particularly offensive exchange:
“He told me, ‘You’re not even good-looking enough to be talking to me,’” she said. “When I asked what he meant, he replied, ‘I’m a man. I’m allowed to be ugly. You’re a woman.’”
Basara began recording the incident, which helped de-escalate the situation. Keller said she refrained from responding further due to the hostile environment.
“It felt dangerous,” she explained. “If things escalated physically, all anyone would see is me confronting an Eagles fan, making me a target.”
Philadelphia’s Fan Reputation
Philadelphia sports fans, particularly Eagles supporters, have long been known for their passionate but occasionally unruly behavior. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Veterans Stadium even had an in-house courtroom to handle fan misconduct.
As the Eagles prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round on Sunday, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining sportsmanship—on and off the field.
