New viral trend emerges that sees men temporarily resigning from their ‘boyfriend duties’

A note from a man to his female partner has divided social media, as he declares significant chunks of time that he will no longer be available — all thanks to the start of a new football season.

A woman took to social media to share a photograph of a letter she got from her boyfriend as the NFL season is set to kick off on September 7 in the US with the opening game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles.

“Over the past five months, I have proudly fulfilled my duties as a helpful, loving, and thoughtful boyfriend,” the note read.

“However, due to unavoidable scheduling conflicts, this is my two-week notice. I will no longer be available for active boyfriend duties during the following days and times.”

His resignation included a 10-hour block on Sundays, an 11-hour block on Saturdays and Mondays, and Thursdays from 8:15 pm.

“These changes will remain in effect until February 2026,” the letter said.

“I hope the next two weeks will allow for a smooth transition, and I appreciate your understanding and support during this critical time in this sports calendar.”

The woman did say she was invited to join, and she and her boyfriend both had quite a sarcastic sense of humor.

It’s not the first time that a letter like this has gone viral. Last year, YouTube and TikTok comedian Jake Maldonado shared a video of himself giving his wife, Kenzie, his “two-week notice.”

“For several months, I have been a helpful, engaging, and loving husband; however, I regret to inform you I am putting in my two-week notice,” the letter read.

He also gave a list of days and times he would no longer be available to her to be a partner.

“This isn’t a valid contract,” Kenzie responded.

“We are currently operating with limited staff.”

Another similar letter went viral, where the man said he now had a “temporary shift in priorities.”

“Please understand that this notice is not a resignation from our shared life and responsibilities but rather a temporary adjustment,” the letter read.

“I assure you that my affection and commitment to our relationship remains unwavering. During this period, my availability for household chores, spontaneous adventures, and certain conversations may be subject to brief interruptions, particularly during game days and key match-ups.”

Social media users had a divided opinion on the letters, with some praising the communication levels but others saying they hoped the love would “never find them.”

“Girl, keep him forever. This is hilarious,” one said.

Another added: “If you can’t beat them, join them girl. Now I play fantasy with my husband. We are both unavailable to everyone else in life during these times of the year.”

“So blessed to have a boyfriend who doesn’t like watching football,” one said.

Another added: “Request DENIED.”

“Would kill for this level of communication. Where are you finding these men?” one said.

Another commented: “All I’m seeing is a very communicative boyfriend lol.”

“A+ Communication Skills, y’all are gonna be together for a long time,” one social media user said.

One added: “I need him, pls.”

“I would send my letter of resignation,” one said.

Another added: “May this ‘love’ never EVER find me.”

“About to do this to my wife,” one said.

Another commented, “I couldn’t imagine EVER wanting to put some random sport over spending time with her.”

Samantha Jayne, an Australian relationship expert, told news.com.au that if the letter was a joke, it was “cute,” but if it was serious and the woman’s boyfriend was offering no flexibility, then the partner needs to consider how it makes her feel.

“The risk is if the girlfriends find a better, more fun life, with more fulfilling connections that make her matter,” she told news.com.au.

“Maybe what is good for the goose is good for the gander, and she may write her own letter.”

Jayne told news.com.au that a lot of women don’t like the experience of dating an emotionally and physically absent man who is obsessed with football, and so there are a lot of women who have a flat-out ban on dating football fans.

They don’t want to be stuck at home, doing nothing when games are on, or be out to dinner with a man on their phone constantly checking scores.

“Expecting a girlfriend to not have her boyfriend every weekend for a significant part of the year would be a major turn off for many women,” she said.

“People sometimes forget that there are consequences to actions. You can do something that brings you closer and strengthens the relationship, or you can do things that cause doubt and disconnection in a relationship.

“Always put yourself in your partner’s shoes before you give them a list of your expectations.”

Now, that isn’t to say that enjoying hobbies and alone time in a relationship is a bad thing — but this type of letter and expectation is “too far,” Jayne said.

“She has needs, too. She may want weekends away or lunches as a couple, enjoying a beach day or a hike. All of those go out the window with such an intense schedule. This is a big price for her to pay,” she said.

“The letter is basically saying this is my availability, and you have no say in it.”

She said things are different when you’re in a relationship, as you need to consider your partner, but if you’re stuck in your old life, it’s a quick way to lose your partner, as it can create a huge divide. It could lead to feeling isolated and lonely, and be at the expense of quality time.

“It would be healthy to at times invite her along to the football if she is invited, she feels welcomed and included, then it is up to her as to whether she will attend or not,” Jayne said.

“If you don’t invite her, she may feel excluded, which causes your relationship to start to grow apart. Maybe look at ways you can expand your interests and compromise. Take up new hobbies and grow as a person.”

Ultimately, it all depends on how the respective partner feels about it, she concluded.