NFL Teams Will Be Fined for Players' Anthem Kneeling

Wednesday, 23 May 2018 13:28

Mather writes: "N.F.L. players will be allowed to stay in the locker room during the national anthem, but their teams will be fined by the league if they go onto the field and kneel, according to new rules adopted by owners on Wednesday in an effort to defuse an issue that escalated last season into a national debate catalyzed by President Trump."

Members of the New England Patriots kneeling during the national anthem before a game against the Texans last season. (photo: Jim Rogash/Getty)

NFL Teams Will Be Fined for Players' Anthem Kneeling

By Victor Mather, The New York Times

23 May 18

.F.L. players will be allowed to stay in the locker room during the national anthem, but their teams will be fined by the league if they go onto the field and kneel, according to new rules adopted by owners on Wednesday in an effort to defuse an issue that escalated last season into a national debate catalyzed by President Trump.

Players had previously been required to be on the field for the anthem. Commissioner Roger Goodell said that owners voted unanimously to rescind that rule and to fine teams if their players are on the field or sidelines but do not �show respect for the flag and the anthem.�

At least one owner, Jed York of the 49ers, said his team abstained in the vote.

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