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NFL's National Anthem Policy: Players On Field Must Stand

The league also now has the power to fine any franchise that has representatives who do not stand or "show respect" while present on the sideline for the anthem.

Amid repeated protests during the playing of the national anthem over the past two seasons, the NFL on Wednesday passed a revised policy that mandates players and team personnel present on the sideline “shall stand and show respect for the flag and the Anthem.”

The revision, which was unanimously agreed to, allows players who would not wish to stand to remain in the locker room. Also under the revision, each franchise will have the power to issue their own policies, which could include fines for players protesting the anthem, under the conduct detrimental provision of the league’s personal conduct policy.

The league also now has the power to fine any franchise that has representatives who do not stand or "show respect" while present on the sideline for the anthem.

UPDATE | Statement From Roger Goddell, NFL Commissioner

The policy adopted today was approved in concert with the NFL’s ongoing commitment to local communities and our country — one that is extraordinary in its scope, resources, and alignment with our players. We are dedicated to continuing our collaboration with players to advance the goals of justice and fairness in all corners of our society.

The efforts by many of our players sparked awareness and action around issues of social justice that must be addressed. The platform that we have created together is certainly unique in professional sports and quite likely in American business. We are honored to work with our players to drive progress.

It was unfortunate that on-field protests created a false perception among many that thousands of NFL players were unpatriotic. This is not and was never the case.

This season, all league and team personnel shall stand and show respect for the flag and the Anthem. Personnel who choose not to stand for the Anthem may stay in the locker room until after the Anthem has been performed.

We believe today’s decision will keep our focus on the game and the extraordinary athletes who play it—and on our fans who enjoy it.

It's also been rumored in recent months that the league may choose to keep the teams in the locker room until after the anthem is played -- something that used to be standard practice.

This all comes as former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has filed a grievance against the NFL, claiming teams have worked together to keep him unsigned. Kaepnernick was the first to launch the kneeling campaign as a way to protest racial injustice. Although he is considered easily good enough to be a backup in the NFL -- and a starter for some teams, he has not been on a roster since the 2016 season.

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