NFL player apologizes after calling Hitler a ‘military genius’

Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen has issued a public apology after outcry over his Tweet last week that called Hitler a “military genius.”

The NFL player made the controversial comment in response to a question about which three people – dead or alive – he would invite to dinner.

Allen wrote that he would invite Michael Jackson and his own late grandfather, but also added Hitler to the guest list, saying, “He’s a military genius and I love military tactics but honestly I would want to pick his brain as to why he did what he did. I’m also assuming that the people I’ve chosen have to answer all my questions honestly.”

The Tweet was deleted shortly after it was posted, but sharp-eyed social media users had already zeroed in on the remark.

When several pointed out that his comments could be “unbelievably hurtful for Jews, Allen replied, “I’m sorry I offended you” and added that he believes Hitler is “easily one if not the most evil persons to have ever lived.”

In a Tweet later the same day, Allen posted another message apologizing for his comments. “Early I tweeted something that probably hurt people and I apologize about what I said. I didn’t express properly what I was trying to say and I realize it was dumb!,” wrote Allen.