When Kalani Bagsby suddenly became the focus of viral attention after her arrival in the NFL partner community, the backlash was swift and often cruel. Online trolls targeted her appearance, calling out her size and questioning her role in a space that has long been dominated by very narrow ideals. But instead of retreating, Bagsby is using her spotlight to challenge norms and push for more representation.
In an exclusive interview with People, she opened up about the hate she’s received, about standing strong, and about a vision she has: making the NFL partner community a place where women of all body types feel seen. This isn’t just a personal fight; it’s her mission now.
Bagsby Said She Wants Women Of All Body Types To Feel Represented In The NFL Partner Space
Kalani Bagsby, 21, is dating Dallas Cowboys offensive guard Tyler Booker, a relationship that’s propelled her into public view as he moved into the NFL. As she’s stepped into this world, she’s also encountered harsh criticism, especially for being plus-sized. She said, “Oh my gosh, the amount of hate I got on that one post, like for the Women of the NFL takeover, was just crazy. The negative comments were endless, and a lot of them were only about my body.”
“It was shocking to see how many strangers had something negative to say about me, just because of how I look,” she explained. “But I also realized it says more about them than it does about me.”
That experience is exactly what’s motivating her now. Bagsby says she wants her presence to be a message: you don’t have to conform to a rigid standard to belong here. “You’re perfect, how you look,” she said. She admits the criticism stings, but she also says she knows how to handle it. “At the end of the day, I remind myself that I’m here for a reason, and I won’t let hateful words change that.” Stepping forward, she believes, can help others feel less alone, and that makes it worth it.
The impact of her stance could ripple across the NFL partner space. A more inclusive partner space means women who haven’t typically been represented, whether for size, background, or style, feel welcome. It also challenges the media, fans, and leagues to broaden what beauty and support look like. If more women like her speak up, the result could be a culture shift rather than a door closing.
Her Message Of Confidence And Self‑Love Is Inspiring Fans Across Social Media
Across social media platforms, Bagsby’s message resonates. Many admire her honesty and her refusal to let criticism silence her. Her posture isn’t “perfect all the time,” she says, but real: she’s still working on self-love and confidence. Some fans say her visibility gives them hope that they, too might be able to step into spaces they once thought off‑limits.
What stands out is how grounded she stays. She doesn’t portray herself as flawless; she acknowledges that confidence can take time. And that relatability is powerful. When someone in the spotlight admits vulnerability, it humanizes the whole image.
There is risk involved. By positioning herself as a voice for plus-size representation, she may attract even more criticism. Yet she seems ready to face it head on. Her approach feels courageous and necessary: she’s not waiting for permission. She’s defining her own space.
Published: Oct 10, 2025 12:44 pm