The Eagle Behind the Moment: How a Local Symbol Soared Into Budweiser’s Super Bowl Spotlight

For years, it has been a familiar presence in East Tennessee, admired quietly by those who knew where to look. Now, that same symbol is stepping onto a national stage, carrying local pride far beyond the region it has long called home. What was once a source of community connection and regional identity is suddenly being seen by millions, turning a deeply local story into a moment of nationwide recognition during one of the most-watched events of the year.

At the center of this moment is Lincoln, a bald eagle long associated with the American Eagle Foundation in Kodak, Tennessee. Lincoln is now appearing in Budweiser’s Super Bowl commercial marking the company’s 150th anniversary. Titled “American Icons,” the spot places the eagle alongside Budweiser’s legendary Clydesdales, uniting two instantly recognizable images that have come to represent strength, endurance, and American heritage across generations.

According to representatives from the American Eagle Foundation, Budweiser approached the organization with a very specific idea in mind. They wanted an eagle that could carry emotional weight, not just visual impact. Lincoln stood out not only for his commanding presence, but for the history he shares with the community and the trust he has built through years of public flights and educational appearances. His selection reflected intention rather than coincidence.

The collaboration has sparked a sense of pride throughout East Tennessee, where many recognize Lincoln as more than just a bird on screen. Seeing a familiar figure appear in a Super Bowl commercial adds a personal layer for those who have followed his story over the years. For them, the ad is not only about branding or spectacle, but about watching a piece of their community resonate on a national level.

Beyond the visuals, the commercial taps into a deeper idea: that some of America’s most enduring symbols do not originate in major cities or media capitals. Instead, they grow quietly in places where tradition, care, and consistency matter. Lincoln’s appearance serves as a reminder that national moments are often built on foundations laid far from the spotlight, shaped by years of steady work and shared respect.

The Super Bowl also carries special meaning for Tennessee this year, with familiar names and symbols representing the state on one of the biggest stages in sports. For many locals, seeing that connection acknowledged during Super Bowl LX adds another layer of significance, blending regional identity with a national audience and reinforcing the idea that local stories still have a place in massive cultural moments.

“Those are two animals that are synonymous with America, and bringing them together has just been incredible,” said Jessica Hall of the American Eagle Foundation. She noted that the timing aligned with multiple milestones, including Budweiser’s 150th anniversary, America’s approaching 250th birthday, and the foundation’s own 30-year history of flying eagles across the country, beginning with Challenger.

Lincoln’s appearance in the commercial is not his first encounter with the NFL or the Super Bowl spotlight. He has previously flown for the Philadelphia Eagles during games and was part of Super Bowl celebrations in 2025 when the team claimed the championship. These experiences have helped prepare him for high-energy environments and massive audiences, making his presence feel calm and assured even in the biggest moments.

“He’s a rock star,” Hall said, describing Lincoln’s experience and demeanor. She explained that years of training and public flights have made him comfortable with cues and routines. His familiarity with large crowds and structured performances allows him to remain focused and composed, reinforcing the idea that his role in the commercial was the result of preparation, care, and long-term trust.

Hall also emphasized how meaningful the project has been for the foundation itself. She described the opportunity as transformative, allowing their mission of conservation, education, and respect for wildlife to reach a global audience. The exposure generated by the commercial extends far beyond entertainment, opening doors for conversations about preservation and responsibility.