NFL gamers will probably be inspired to face for the nationwide anthem initially of soccer video games, the league’s president advised reporters at present.
After two days of assembly with the house owners of every NFL staff, representatives of the gamers’ union and the gamers themselves, the NFL reiterated its determination to retain its present coverage of not requiring gamers to face throughout the nationwide anthem. Goodell stated yesterday that the league will Don’t set a rule It could punish gamers who refuse to face for the nationwide anthem.
“We consider that everybody ought to stand for the nationwide anthem,” he advised reporters in a press convention at present. “This is a crucial a part of our coverage. It’s also an necessary a part of our recreation and one which we’re all pleased with. It’s also necessary for us to respect our flag and our nation and I feel our followers count on us to try this.”
Goodell’s feedback got here after President Donald Trump continued his criticism of the NFL this morning. Trump stated on Twitter: “The NFL has determined that it’ll not power gamers to face throughout our nationwide anthem. Full disrespect for our nice nation!”
After former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick knelt throughout the nationwide anthem final 12 months to protest police killings of unarmed black males, dozens of different gamers joined him to deliver extra consideration to social and racial injustice. Final month, Trump stated the NFL ought to hearth gamers who didn’t stand throughout the nationwide anthem.
Goodell stated at present that the gamers “are usually not doing this in any method to disrespect the flag.” “However additionally they perceive how it’s interpreted.”
Goodell additionally stated the league desires to remain out of the political area on the difficulty.
“We aren’t seeking to get into politics,” he advised reporters. “What we’re seeking to do is proceed to maintain folks centered on soccer.”