Simone Biles added a new role to her already historic résumé on Sunday night, stepping onto the sidelines as a credentialed NFL photographer while cheering on her husband, Jonathan Owens, during the Chicago Bears’ matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
The Olympic champion attended the December 28 game not just as a supportive spouse, but also as part of the media team. Wearing an official NFL photographer’s vest and holding a Sony camera, Biles documented moments from the field as the Bears faced the 49ers on Sunday Night Football.
In a video shared by the NFL, Biles smiled as she explained her new assignment. “We are here at Sunday Night Football when the Bears take on the 49ers, and I’m gonna be taking some photographs,” she said. The league playfully captioned the clip: “NFL photographer @Simone_Biles in the house for Bears-49ers!”
“Just a little side gig”
Biles later described the role as “just a little side gig” while greeting fellow NFL spouse Olivia Culpo on the sidelines. Culpo is married to San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey, making the pregame moment a crossover of sports and celebrity worlds.
Photos shared by the Chicago Bears on social media showed Biles smiling behind her camera as Owens walked toward her from the field, beaming. The image quickly gained traction online, with fans praising the couple’s visible support for each other’s careers.
A supportive presence throughout the season
Biles has frequently traveled to attend Bears games since Owens joined the team, often cheering from the sidelines. This appearance, however, marked a rare instance where she took on an official role during an NFL broadcast. The couple, who married in April 2023, have consistently shared glimpses of their life together, balancing elite athletics with personal milestones. Just days before the game, Biles posted photos from their Christmas celebrations, showing the pair in matching navy silk pajamas as they opened gifts at home.
“Merry Christmas everyone,” Biles wrote in one Instagram Story, later sharing cozy images of the couple embracing and exchanging kisses. Owens responded in the comments with a heartfelt message, writing that he was “so thankful” for his wife.
Love, sports, and shared moments
Earlier in December, Biles also showed her support by wearing a sparkling ring featuring Owens’ initials while the two attended a concert in Chicago. She shared videos of them dancing and singing along at the United Center, continuing a pattern of public affection that fans have come to admire.
For Biles, whose career includes 11 Olympic medals and multiple world championships, the night was a reminder that even global sports icons can enjoy low-pressure moments on the sidelines. For Owens, it was another game with his biggest supporter close by—this time capturing the action through her own lens. As the NFL season continues, fans may be left wondering whether this was a one-night-only appearance or the beginning of a new hobby for the most decorated gymnast in history.
