NFL Announces New Player Policy For The National Anthem

ATLANTA, GA — It was a busy and controversial day for NFL owners as the league announced a new policy for pre-game national anthems. It’s one that will potentially punish players who want to kneel in protest.

The policy requires players to stand if they are on the field during the anthem, but gives them the option to stay in the locker room if they want. Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers chose to do just that before the home game against the Saints last season.

The NFL can now fine a team if a player does not “show respect for the anthem.”

That includes any attempt to sit or kneel, as dozens of players have done over the past two seasons to protest racial inequality and police brutality.

Commissioner Goodell says there are still bugs to be worked out like what the fine will be, and how the league will define ‘respect for the flag’.

The NFL Players Union has already released a statement condemning and challenging the new policy.