Philadelphia Eagles Chairman Don Smolenski has bluntly announced the termination of the team’s sponsorship deal with tech company Astronomer after CEO Andy Byron was caught in a disgraceful act attempting to engage in an extramarital affair with subordinate employee Kristin Cabot. “We will stand by and protect mothers—no matter what”
BREAKING: Eagles Drop Tech Sponsor Astronomer After CEO’s Scandal — “We Will Stand by and Protect Mothers”
Philadelphia, PA — July 20, 2025 — In a move that has sent shockwaves through both the tech and sports worlds, Philadelphia Eagles Chairman Don Smolenski has announced the immediate termination of the team’s sponsorship deal with software company Astronomer, following revelations involving the company’s CEO, Andy Byron.
Byron, a high-profile executive in the data pipeline industry, is now at the center of a corporate firestorm after being caught attempting to initiate an extramarital affair with a subordinate employee, Kristin Cabot, a project manager and single mother. The incident, described by sources close to the matter as “deeply inappropriate and coercive,” has sparked outrage inside Astronomer and beyond.
Smolenski addressed the matter head-on in a candid press briefing Monday morning:
“We made the decision to end our relationship with Astronomer, effective immediately,” Smolenski stated. “The Eagles organization holds itself to the highest standards of integrity and respect—not just on the field, but in our partnerships. We will not stand by companies whose leadership fails to uphold basic human decency.”
He added pointedly: “We will stand by and protect mothers—no matter what.”
A Deal in Flames
The sponsorship, reportedly worth $9.2 million annually, had positioned Astronomer as the team’s exclusive data and analytics partner. The collaboration included in-stadium activations, branded content, and joint technology initiatives. All assets featuring Astronomer branding were removed from Lincoln Financial Field within hours of the announcement.
Sports betting apps
Custom sports jerseys
Insiders say the deal was already under review after anonymous reports surfaced last week accusing Byron of creating a toxic workplace culture. The new allegations, however, tipped the scales.
“When this kind of behavior happens at the top, it poisons the entire organization,” said an Eagles spokesperson.
“An Abuse of Power”
Multiple sources inside Astronomer confirm that Byron had pursued an inappropriate relationship with Cabot for months, often under the guise of mentorship. Screenshots of messages and audio recordings, now circulating privately among employees, suggest an escalating pattern of boundary violations.
Kristin Cabot, who has not spoken publicly, is reportedly considering legal action.
“This was not a consensual flirtation—it was a pattern of manipulation from someone with enormous control over her career,” said an attorney familiar with the case.
Astronomer’s board has since placed Byron on “administrative leave,” though growing pressure from shareholders suggests a full ouster may be imminent.
Public and Player Reactions
News of the Eagles’ decision drew widespread praise from fans, women’s advocacy groups, and even Eagles players.
“Leadership is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking,” tweeted Jalen Hurts, the team’s star quarterback. “Proud to be part of an org that doesn’t compromise its values.”
Former NFL players and commentators echoed the sentiment, noting how rare it is for major teams to make such firm ethical stances—especially when large sponsorship dollars are involved.
“This isn’t just about business,” said ESPN analyst Mina Kimes. “This is about sending a message: Women—especially those in vulnerable positions—deserve better.”
The Bigger Picture
Astronomer now faces a growing PR disaster, employee backlash, and potential civil litigation. Meanwhile, the Eagles’ swift, unapologetic response is being hailed as a blueprint for how professional organizations should respond when ethics and sponsorship collide.
As for Don Smolenski, his words have already become a rallying cry:
“We will stand by and protect mothers—no matter what.”
