Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens briefly stepped away from his NFL responsibilities in July 2024 to cheer on his wife, gymnastics icon Simone Biles, as she competed in the Paris Summer Olympics. Owens’ decision to temporarily leave training camp was both a personal and professional commitment, as he had already coordinated the leave with the Bears when he signed with the team. His plan was to be present for one of the most significant moments in Biles’ athletic career—and he kept that promise.
The Bears organization stood behind Owens’ choice, acknowledging the importance of family and milestone achievements. Head coach Matt Eberflus openly supported the move, noting that both the Olympics and family life deserve respect. He emphasized that Owens’ decision was rooted in love and support, stating, “He’s just supporting the one he loves the most.” That understanding from the team reinforced the Bears’ recognition of how personal life and professional commitments can intersect.
Owens traveled to Paris to be by Biles’ side as she competed in her third Olympic Games. The gymnast, already one of the most decorated in the sport’s history, added to her legendary status by winning two gold medals in the 2024 Games. Owens was present for her standout performances and shared how proud he was to witness history unfold firsthand. He took to social media and interviews to express his admiration, applauding Biles’ resilience and determination.
Their relationship, which began in 2020, has been a model of mutual support and encouragement. Owens and Biles got married in 2023, and since then, they’ve continually shown how committed they are to each other’s dreams. Despite the demands of their individual careers—Owens in the NFL and Biles in elite gymnastics—the couple has made it a priority to be there for one another in big moments.
Throughout the Olympics, Owens was more than just a supportive spouse—he also defended Biles publicly. In response to online criticism that sometimes follows high-profile athletes, he shared a powerful message aimed at shutting down negativity and standing up for his wife’s excellence. His support went beyond just attending events; it became a public stand for love, loyalty, and respect.
Owens’ decision to prioritize his wife’s Olympic journey speaks volumes about the values the couple shares. It also highlights how NFL players, often seen as tough and singularly focused on their careers, can also be compassionate partners who prioritize family milestones. The Bears, too, earned praise for allowing Owens the flexibility to be part of something personally meaningful, showing a more human side of professional sports management.
Fans and media alike responded positively to Owens’ move. Many admired how he balanced his professional duties with personal commitment, recognizing that his actions set a strong example for athletes and fans alike. His heartfelt gestures and unwavering presence in Paris demonstrated a relationship built on genuine care and admiration.
In the end, the brief pause from training didn’t just allow Owens to witness greatness—it gave him the chance to be part of it. Watching Simone Biles dominate on the world stage while knowing he contributed to her confidence and peace of mind was a powerful experience. And as Biles soared to new heights, Owens remained proudly by her side, both as a husband and as her biggest fan.
