In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has wrought significant devastation across several communities, NFL quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Baker Mayfield have taken to social media to express their gratitude to the first responders and volunteers working diligently on recovery efforts. Both athletes shared a similar message of appreciation and a call to action, urging their followers to support the restoration initiatives.

“Thank you to our first responders and volunteers for working so tirelessly to restore our communities following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Please visit Team Rubicon USA to learn how you can help,” via Mayfield on X, formerly Twitter with Cousins posting the same thing.

Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction, impacting numerous families and businesses, disrupting daily activities, and causing widespread power outages. The severity of the storm has prompted a massive coordinated response from various emergency services, with volunteers across the state stepping in to aid those affected.

The quick mobilization of groups like Team Rubicon USA, a non-profit organization that utilizes the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams, has been crucial in the initial recovery phase.

Competitors come together in the wake of a tragedy

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) throws a pass against the New Orleans Saints in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Related NewsArticle continues below
NFL former quarterback Tom Brady hits his tee shot on the 11th hole during the first round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament at Spyglass Hill Golf Course.
Tom Brady embarrassed on golf course by country music star
J.K. Dobbins
Ranking best J.K. Dobbins fits late in 2025 NFL free agency
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) scores a touchdown on a quarterback sneak against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Feb. 12, 2023.
Eagles’ 2-word response to Packers’ Tush Push ban proposal failing

The hurricane’s impact extends into the sports world, particularly affecting the NFL schedule. Thursday night, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to face the Atlanta Falcons in Atlanta, a city also feeling the effects of Hurricane Helene. While Atlanta did not bear the brunt of the storm, the residual issues of Helene have necessitated additional preparations and considerations for the safety of both players and fans, even after the storm passed through.

The NFL has been in close contact with local authorities to ensure that the game can proceed safely. Additional resources have been allocated to guarantee that the stadium is secure and fully operational. The league has also prepared for potential changes in travel plans and accommodations to accommodate the displaced teams and officials.

This upcoming game in Atlanta highlights the resilience of the community and the unifying power of sports in the face of natural disasters. As the city recovers, the Thursday night football game is seen not just as a sporting event but also as a symbol of normalcy and recovery for the people affected by Hurricane Helene.

The outreach by figures like Cousins and Mayfield not only raises awareness about the ongoing relief efforts but also shows the compassionate side of athletes who are often seen only through the lens of their on-field exploits. Their call to action serves as a reminder of the broader role sports figures can play in rallying support and fostering community spirit in challenging times.