Pictured is linebacker Christian Elliss with his cleats supporting Compassion International. Elliss says he and his wife support the organization because "[Compassion's] mission to share Christ's love and give children hope in His name is something we also feel called to.”
Photo courtesy of the New England Patriots/David Silverman.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado. (December 5, 2025) – During this year's “My Cause My Cleats” campaign, professional football players turned their cleats into a message of hope, spotlighting Compassion International’s efforts to help release children from poverty in Jesus’ name.
Among those who championed Compassion International were punter Bradley Pinion, linebacker Christian Elliss, long snapper Scott Daly and assistant quarterback coach David Blough.
“It’s one thing to play football and impact lives by playing football,” shares Pinion, “but it’s another thing to impact with your platform and using what God has blessed me with to bless others.” Pinion has been a longtime advocate for Compassion. In 2025, he led a group of Atlanta Falcons staff and players to the Dominican Republic to witness Compassion’s work firsthand, deepening their understanding of the organization’s impact.
He’s not alone in his support. Elliss added that he and his wife “[chose] Compassion International for “My Cause My Cleats” because their mission to share Christ’s love and give children hope in His name is something we also feel called to. Every child deserves the chance to be seen, known, and empowered. Supporting Compassion is investing in futures, helping strengthen families, and sharing hope that can transform communities.”
Blough echoed their commitment: “We are proud to partner daily with Compassion. We walk hand in hand in the effort to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name.”
Compassion currently serves 2.4 million children, partnering with local frontline church partners to help release them from poverty. Since 2024, 520,415 new participants have been enrolled in the organization’s work -- growth made possible by committed partners around the world.