One NFL Player Stands Out Among the Kneelers… Then Apologizes
Could you believe the incredible amount of action on NFL fields last weekend? I’m sure we’ll see much more of the same today in what is turning out to be a very interesting season.
No, I’m not talking about passes and runs, touchdowns and tackles or field goals and safeties. They all pale in comparison to what happened just prior to the opening kickoff last weekend.
That’s when many NFL players knelt down on the sidelines during the National Anthem. Some even stayed in their locker rooms to protest racial inequality in America.
Even many of the players who decided to stand during the National Anthem locked arms. They wanted to show unity with those who have chosen this particular forum to protest.
Bosses Side with Employees
President Donald Trump was hoping that NFL executives and coaches would speak out against these protests. He made it very clear what he would do if he were an NFL owner.
“Wouldn’t you love to see one of the NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, ‘Get that son of a bitch off the field right now?’” Trump told an audience in Alabama.
“You know, some owner… is going to say, ‘That guy who disrespects our flag, he’s fired.’” Trump also encouraged football fans to leave stadiums. He wanted people to counter protest the players who knelt during the National Anthem.
But regardless of how they feel about this subject, many NFL team and league officials verbally supported the players. They think it’s their right to protest in this manner.
One of those NFL owners, Shahid Khan of the Jacksonville Jaguars, even stood with them. He locked arms with his players on the sidelines last weekend in a show of solidarity. Khan had donated funds to President Donald Trump’s inauguration.
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who once called Trump a very good friend, said he supports his players’ rights “to peacefully (effect) social change.”
Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell disagreed with Trump. He said that Trump’s remarks about players who knelt during the National Anthem were “divisive” and show an “unfortunate lack of respect.”
One Man Chooses to Stand Alone
Not every NFL player knelt down, locked arms with other players or stayed in a locker room while the National Anthem played last weekend. Many stood up as individuals like they always do.
But one in particular stood in the face of adversity. It was the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle and former Army Ranger Alejandro Villanueva. He defied his team’s vote. He didn’t stay in the locker room during the National Anthem at Soldier Field in Chicago last Sunday.
It seemed that he was not comfortable remaining indoors while the Star-Spangled Banner played outside the locker room. He stood in plain sight in the tunnel leading to the field and held his right hand over his heart as the Anthem played.
The Steelers head coached commented on Villanueva after the game. He said he had expected all his players to act in the same manner after voting on the issue. “I was looking for 100 percent participation. We were going to be respectful of our football team.”
Villanueva Reconsiders His Decision
Villanueva received considerable praise from the public for his stance. He even saw sales of his replica football jersey skyrocket. But the next day, he issued what amounted to an apology for his actions.
“I’ve made Coach Tomlin look bad, and that is my fault, and that is my fault only,” Villanueva said. “I made my teammates look bad, and that is my fault, and my fault only. And I made the Steelers look bad, and that is my fault, and my fault only. So, unwillingly, I made a mistake.”
His statement came as a surprise to many. Villanueva had served three tours of duty in Afghanistan. He also earned the Bronze Star after playing his college football at West Point. He had this to say about the subject during an ESPN interview last year:
“I don’t know if the most effective way (to protest) is to sit down during the National Anthem with a country that’s providing you freedom, providing you $16 million a year… when there are black minorities that are dying in Iraq and Afghanistan for less than $20,000 a year.”
How Do You Feel About It?
I’d love to know what you think about this situation. Should professional athletes stand during the National Anthem? What did you think about Villanueva and his choice to stand last Sunday? How do you feel about his apology the next day? Hope you’ll chime in with your thoughts. Leave a comment below and let us know!
Related Posts
-
7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Buckles Roads, Causes Blackouts in Anchorage
-
Fisher House Foundation Steps in to Ensure Military Survivor Benefits During Government Shutdown
-
Self-Reliance Becomes More Important Than Ever with FEMA’s Downfall
-
Over-Prescribing of Antibiotics Isn’t Just Unnecessary… It Can Be Deadly
A good friend told me 65 years ago that it is a waste of time to argue with employees, …….always go to the top! Do not support the NFL in any way. No TV, no attendance, no purchase of products. Then sit back and watch how fast the owners, managers, and coaches decide it is time to carry out the rules of the contracts. If stock holders are involved, it won’t take long.
God bless President Trump, and our great country!
Whatever your political feeling is on the issue the USA IS our country and we should show love and respect for our Flag and the National Anthem.
I believe the NFL should fire all the players that do not respect our FLAG and our ANTHEM. And we should not see any more games of the NFL until they do RESPECT.
I don’t care how many tours he had. He became that traitor when he turn his back on his flag (after first playing the “Leader” in front of an audience) . Why didn’t he just thrust his fist in the air as his real salute to our anthem while in the players tunnel. Coward!!!!!!!!retreat!!!!!!!!
Villanueva did the right thing by respecting the flag that he has fought for and if he wants to protest his service is the ONLY THING that gives him the right to do so. I do believe that the players have a right to protest and effect change, but the National Anthem is not the FORUM for them to do so.
There was a commercial on the Super Bowl that talked about a player whose brother had been shot and killed by an off duty Police Officer. THAT player has a right to protest, but instead he took his “platform” and made a coalition that is taking ACTIONS to correct these problems! That is how a REAL MAN effect change!
I have lost all respect for the NFL. I served in the Army for over 30 years responding to my country. There are ways to protest, but deliberately dishonoring our flag, anthem, and country is not it!
Owners wake up do what is right and forget about business!
Myself and my family, stand for our flag and we kneel before the cross. If people don’t like that, there are countries that have no respect or integrity that they could move to!
God bless
Let them kneel, on both knees with their hands over their heads, when ISIS or some other “JV Team” is ready to take their heads
It’s despicable that some entertainers and athletes are using the public airways to spout their political views. They’re forcing me to listen and see their antics. That’s why I’ve tuned out of the Emmy’s and Tony’s, and why I’m now no longer watching most professional games, until they stop their pollution and exploitation of my time.
I don’t think, I know that no one in this country nor anyone who is an american citizen has the right to protest the very symbol of their own country. If you are one who does, then you are not only sick, but morally and spiritually depraved, and, lack common sense. By the way, common sense only comes from the wisdom of our Heavenly Father, YHVH. You obviously have never served your country. You have only been served by this great country. If you don’t like living here, then get your sorry ass out of here. Try Cuba or Venezuela. I’ sure these types of Governments would be suited more to your mentality. Instead of protesting our God blessed country, try being thankful for the simple fact that you have been privileged to be placed by God to live here. Also, try thanking a Veteran for for his sacrifice so your sorry ass can earn the money that you do. So stop acting like a wimp and a sheeple, grow up and be a man. Vietnam Veteran
This is a very sad representation of our country. This in NOT about free speech since the NFL would NOT allow the players to honor the Dallas police officers that were murdered nor would the NFL allow the players to honor the 911 victims , but they are allowing the deliberate dishonor of our flag and country! Shameful! Also, this is now showing up on the fields of our children. Where has patriotism gone? The same way of our morality . Will not watch NFL again!
This all started when they took the pledge out of the schools. It needs to be brought back. Now!
If they don’t want to say the pledge then they can wait in the hall or another room. Quit listening to people that come to our country; then want to change everything like they did in the country they left. If they come here they should have to go by how things are done here. That’s as simple as that. Kids are not taught to look up to there elders like we were taught. Thank God we have people that fight for our country. The African American people I worked with told me that if they got in trouble in school they got a beating when they went home. We worked for a big company and the white women were more than nasty so it was the African American women who were nice and helped me. So I have alot of African American friends and dislike what happens to them. Please God please change our world so they get treated better. There are alot of violence among themselves; I think getting treated better would help stop some of that. President Trump will help change that if you Democrats and Republicans would grow up and work together. This would help change our country because they are the cause of everything.
When in Rome do as the Romans do…
When in AMERICA do as an AMERICAN does…
OR GET THE HELL OUT OF DODGE!!!!!!!!
There’s a time and place for everything and protesting DURING OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM IS NOT A TIME OF PROTEST!!!
Those numbnuts should go back to school or sit and talk with ANY American who fought for THEIR freedom and learn what RESPECT really means!!!
I feel that so many people of today have no idea what respect is. They say they want respect and that black life’s matter,well all life’s matter. Respecting the United States flag and Athem by standing doesn’t mean that black life’s or any American life doesn’t matter. It shows you RESPECT your country where you are FREE. Protest off your job (the NFL feild) March, carry signs, link arms, and vote. But don’t show your lack respect for yourself and your country plus teach the children to do the same. You never shame yourself by Standing Proudly for your country. Stand, put your hand on your heart and take your hat off, (ladies too).
Perhaps the NFL can just eliminate the playing of the National Anthem at the games. This country is very divided and acting polar on many subjects. With no patriotic music before the game then no one has cause to pick sides. It would die out and people might enjoy the game instead of getting angry or upset.
If you don’t want to stand, then don’t except your spay., you have the freedoms you have because of the men and women who have paid the price for your freedom.Love America or leave it, and all of it’s perks behind.
Our American men and women have fought and many died to protect freedom for all Americans.
The root of the problems will never be fixed by disrespecting a symbol.
Not all law enforcement officials are crooked and not all citizens are criminals.
The murder of citizens and Law Enforcent Agents is deplorable.
Years ago a man was surrounded by his neighbors and encouraged to shoot and kill a young policeman which he did.
Where were you kneelers?
When the five policemen were ambushed and shot down like dogs where were you kneelers?
Oh, and FYI the neighbors were BLACK AMERICANS!
Kneel before the symbol of our nation in protest, and stay silent when a law enforcement agents are murdered.
What manner of men are you?
Those officers were doing their jobs and to my knowledge not one of them had murdered anyone or mistreated anyone.
Maybe you all should join the Armed Forces and walk just one year in the life of those who fight to keep you safe to make your millions and live the privileged life’s you have because some dared to become soldiers protecting nameless, faceless, citizens such as yourselves.
If the best you all can do is kneel in the safety of a colosseum you are all men most miserable.
wealthy well endowed blacks protesting bad treatment How stupid there are people of all races living in the US for less that 20K a year deciding to take their prescription drugs or buy food. and we have the young healthy black men refusing to cooperate Idiotic and Absurd
I believe we have failed as a culture to teach our children respect. They have grown up believing they can express themselves without restraint. They can live every moment online and out in front o the rest of humanity. There is no feeling that there are appropriate and inappropriate venues for certain expressions of thought. We have a nation of young adults who have no FILTER!
WHY are we surprised when our beloved flag – the most important symbol of our freedom – is used in an attempt to protest inequality in America?!
Don’t get me wrong, I think inequality is a growing problem, not just racial, but also religious, economic and educational. It is not getting better, it is just better hidden than it was in the past. There is a massively growing divide between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots.’ So, while I deplore that it has come to this, I can see why it is happening.
The players want to be supportive of their grassroots fans and in some cases their extended families who endure some form of discrimination every single day. By putting it out there via broadcast tv, they are spreading a message in the most effective forum they have. Do I like it, no, but…
If I think back to the 70s when people were burning the flag, I can pull forward what many of us thought at the time, “While I hate what they did, I would fight to the death to maintain their freedom to do it.”
I am very much opposed to the NFL not taking an unequivocal pro-USA stand in light of its players disrespecting the American flag by “taking a knee” (as they pompously call it) during the American Anthem. Granted one of the freedoms we have in America is the freedom of speech, but when the manner in which one expresses that freedom of speech breaks a law (or, in the case of the NFL, breaks a rule from the NFL that calls on the teams to be respectful of the flag/Anthem due to being in the public eye) there are (or certainly should be) repercussions for protests. In the case of the NFL, the players who continue to protest in a public display of lack of respect for the country and its flag, fines should be imposed by the NFL… not tacit approval. Since the NFL itself has come down on the side of disrespect for America and the flag, America-loving sportsmen and establishments should exercise their freedom by not tuning in to NFL games nor recording them on DVR’s to be counted toward Nielson viewership ratings. If the NFL feels the hit in their pocketbook from continually declining ratings and revenue from NFL merchandise, maybe THEN they will start cracking down on unpatriotic players (even though they have already shown themselves to be unpatriotic.themselves).
Villanueva did not make the other players/coach/team look bad, they brought that on themselves. He stood strong, proud, AND IN HONOR OF THIS GREAT NATION, as it should be. I can’t help but wonder if maybe he was chastised by the others for his stand, and only backpedaled because he maintains the “team player” spirit.
Sad time in the USA, people with no backbone, no principal, money, and popularity driven, I don’t agree with everything that our president does or say but I admire him for not being afraid to say and express his opinion even risking being unpopular and hated, standing tall protecting our values and honor, the chicken owners are afraid to lose popularity and money while being at odds with some payers, yes it’s only few bad apples but the rest find it nice and popular to join them, they are paid employees and they should play for the money they are paid for so handsomely they should NOT play or bring politics to the sport, the first one that kneeled should have been fired or put on noticed, yes he is very popular and important to the team and the owner to be able to make money, so they chickened out some people will go against Trump regardless of what he says that’s not right either we should think what’s best for America first, Obama did and say for 8 years only what he thinks is popular and nice regardless if it’s good for the USA, it should be a huge warning sign for us that most world leaders love him, back to our subject, SPORTS SHOULD BE CLEANED OF POLITICS,
I agree with President Trump.
Stand up and respect our flag.
Why have so many of our athletes (and others) completely missed the main point of this insane uproar. Sure, our country has issues that need to be dealt with, but demonstrating disrespect for our flag and our country is not the way to do it. Let’s work together to make our country stronger and better, not create animosity where little or none existed before this misdirected show of disrespect opened new wounds.
merle haggard got it right when you puttin down this country man youre walkin on the fightin side of me go over to north russia they will let you play for a chicken bone then shoot you
It’s sad that there are people out there, that hate Trump so bad, that they would use sports to make a statement against him. Trump is 100% correct in what he has stated. I stand along our President, and Country. GOD BLESS AMERICA!
As a dis-abled veteran I feel to kneel is a slap in the face to all veterans and true americans. I lived over seventy years listening to a small portion of blacks complain. Most are good working and don’t support those small single minded groups. We ALL need to stand together
And they call us deplorable if nothing else show respect to those who have given so much for the right to protest find a different place to speak so many have forgotten about respect this is the greatest country show it
It seems to me that these spoiled, overpaid morons need to be shipped to wherever they want and see what freedom in the US means, or reinstate the selective Service and give them the opportunity to see what our country stands for. I agree, they are making millions for playing a game and instead of insulting everyone in the country…Take your millions and, instead of buying multiple homes vehicles, jewelry, etc. , build programs to help make things right. And by the way….White ,Brown, Pink, Green or Purple lives MATTER, also. Instead of mouthing and whining about unequality, DO SOMETHING CONSTRUCTIVE. Spend your money that this country gives you and MAKE ADIFFERENCE
First off, I have no idea why they play the national anthem at sporting events. I personal hate our anthem and would like to change it to God Bless America or America the Beautiful, both written by Americans. The melody, too difficult to sing for most Americans, is from an old English drinking song. Francis Scott Key, a British subject though loyal to the rebelling colonists, wrote it during one of the opening battles of the American Revolution. It’s lyrics are pro-war and pro-slavery. But for now, it is our national anthem and should be honored by all AMERICANS and not used to make a political statement. At the same time, the first amendment prohibits the federal union (Congress) from infringing on our God-given right to self-expression, so the players are within their rights to express themselves in any manner they choose. The NFL has a rule that all players will STAND during the anthem lined up on the sideline with their helmets in their LEFT hand. Nothing is said about placing the right hand over the heart, so I guess that is optional. Players who choose not to stand are in violation of an NFL rule and subject to disciplinary action. If the coaches or players want to change the rule, they can do so by petitioning the NFL and voting for a rule change. Until then, they should obey the rule and require their players to obey the rule. No exceptions.
I think this is more than a ‘right to protest’, I believe the NFL has a rule that says when the National Anthem plays players will STAND, PLACE THEIR RIGHT HAND OVER THEIR HEART WHILE HOLDING THEIR HELMET IN THEIR LEFT HAND! Apparently the Commissioner isn’t even interested in enforcing the leagues own rules. Not a surprise considering the number of criminals on the field.
The NFL’s own rules prohibit anything but standing at attention during the National Anthem, so why is there any controversy about political statements at a time when none are allowed?
If the NFL had enforced their won rules, they would not have lost the respect of most of the country!
I blame the referees for not sending Kaepernick to the showers the first time he did it!
I will never watch , purchase tickets , merchandise or any thing related to NFL ! Ever as long as they disrespect our country or flag ! The bylaws were set to boost pro football as patriotic teams battling on the field for our national pride ! The display of players is destroying the league ! BUT WE THE REAL PATRIOTS OF THIS GREAT NATION WILL NEVER LET YOU OVER PRICED MONKEYS DESTROY OUR COUNTRY , We will fight all enemies on and off the field ! As the keepers of our freedom you will be defeated as we will slip the dogs of war against all who threaten her ! Straighten up or kiss your life Carreras good bye !
Our Flag is a rally point for our country. It has always been that way, We have a long history of issues and problems, but always rally behind our Flag for our country.
Our Flag represents our country, not some individual issue or problem in our country. We must stand behind our Flag and country. It is what Americans are for, and to do. It should never be disrespected due to any given issue or problem.
There are many people and countries today that do not respect our Flag, or us. Those who are in this category are not deserving Americans. Select another country, and leave this one.
Villanueva reacted as he felt. It was his duty. His subsequent denial was also a duty for his team, and coach. That pressure is the cause of his reversal, not his personal feelings inside. He is to be commended for his initial act, and excused for his subsequent act as it was based solely upon the disrespect by his team and coach toward him of whom he must also support.
I don’t care about their reasons. It’s disrespectful to the flag and anthum. The danger is its contagious. Yesterday, at the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery taps were played and a man was videotaped taking a knee! At Arlington!
I personally am protesting also, I no longer watch professional football, nor do I purchase any items that advertise & support professional football. If you want to protest fine, please do not disrespect the flag or country that allows you to enjoy such freedom. If you want change, contact your representatives, although I am not sure what these professional athlete $millionaires want. If you want treated more fairly, assimilate into mainstream society, respect & obey the law, try to be productive & respectful of everybody.
IF ANYONE LIVING IN THIS COUNTRY WITH ALL THE FREEDOMS WE HAVE AND CAN’T SUPPORT OUR GOVERNMENT, RESPECT THE FLAG AND NATIONAL ANTHEM SHOULD JUST PACK-UP AND LEAVE THIS GREAT NATION . GO SOMEWHERE THAT’S COMMUNIST OR RUN BY THE TERRORISTS OF THE WORLD AND ENJOY THE FREEDOMS THERE ( HA ! HA ! ). ALL I CAN SAY IS “HAVE A HAPPY TRIP ” ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Taking the knee is a sign of respect. What of the spectator in the stand that remains seated with hat on during the anthem? That to me is a sign of disrespect.
ALL of this started under the Traitor OBAMA by perpetrating a lie in the first place. Micheal Brown was a criminal shot while attacking a policeman.
“Hands Up ! Don’t Shoot” doesn’t apply tho’ if you’re a black shooting another black …………….
B S
It is every Americans right to protest but there is appropriate ways to do it DISRESPECTING MY FLAG and NATIONAL ANTHEM IS NOT IT!!!!
With all of the Billions of our tax money that goes to NFL and the stadiums each year they all need to stand during the National Anthem!! Bring attention to issues in other ways & pay respect to the flag, the people in the military and our country during this moment!!! Thank you
to all you racist, kkk, white supremacist and nationalist, who sides with your master, commander in chief Trump, all Kaepernick is saying, dear God, where is the justice for my people, you know what time it is, Rom. 14: 11…As I live Says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me. black people were brought over here as slaves against their will to build up this nation and some of you say go back these players are laying down their lives , its not just a game, it cost, they are not just making money for themselves but for the owners ,coaches, and etc. since when did standing for the national anthem get to be part of their job description. every country is represented by a flag, it is material and temporal but God is Eternal. sounds like dictatorship is trying to creep in, God forbid. Daniel 6 chap. God will rescue His people
Based on what people have seen from your statement, if i were you, i would watch were you go. Apparently these people know who and where you are and i do not. They did not like the idea that i was warning you. I believe in communicating and establishing a dialog, and they do not. They do motivational training the physcal way
free speech and peaceful protest are rights that we all have,along with the duty to step forward when we feel wronged. however with 1440 minutes in the day the 2 minutes during the national anthem is not the time!!!
I expected this from overpriced players wooly act like there playing to win? Had a friend played pro football and this is many years ago .we sat and he explained what would happen each play,as I argued he was right everytime every game. One game the quarterback ran a touch down and almost changed the game he said he was done and said why, it wast in the game plan? So the 350 guys came after him busted his knees and put him out for the rest of the year.he told me the game were planed exacuted, by the NFL? All games and winning teams are chosen each year by Ars hole Goodell. It’s all about the money and has nothing to do with a great team and effort. Owners are in on it as coaches devise tactic tor showman ship. Basically all teams are rigged. So why bother and watch or suport lieing manipulation of fans. What a ripoff. I stoped watching years ago FAKE GAMES Football. Now we’re at choice to send the lieing SOB home. Just 5hink of all the money you could have invested in your community children, city, even self?! Instead of disrespectful kneeler’s in a fake game of sports. And now public knoledge of corporate tax breaks? What do we get? The shafts just like veterans lied to and stole from. So now we’re suposed to pay for there political, or moral opnion as 5he do nothing to help the cause or anything to get us behind them. Ruin the element’s of faith and beliefs that there’s honesty and integrity, even in players. They stand for nothing including Patriotism.
I am a veteran and I support the right to protest but I do not support disrespect to our flag or our country . Find a different way to protest !!!
I appreciate what Villanueva did. I believe in free speech and if they choose to protest that is up to them but the flag and national anthem should be off limits. It is disrespectful and it is teaching the younger generation that it is OK to be disrespectful and do whatever they want no matter how it affects others
Any one who talks about racecism needs to return to school and get an education. These black sob are standing up for BLACK THUGS WHO BREAK THE LAW AND PLACE OFIECERS LIVES IN JEOPARDY .
I stand for the flag, I kneel for the Cross.
It’s never okay showing disrespect to the flag or our nation. The 1st Amendment has been taken too far.
If you can’t stand and show respect and I don’t mean with your fist held high, you are free to leave our country.
Remember from PASS ISSUES, you are treated on how you act and dress specially the way you talk .
They should abide by there own rules:::
ROGER GOODELL NEEDS TO STEP DOWN AS NFL COMMISSIONER.
<
…..Roger Goodell (NFL Commissioner) hasn’t read his rule book… (too busy hiding under a rock and kissing butts)
The specific rule pertaining to the National Anthem is found on pages A62-63 of the NFL League Rulebook states:
“The National Anthem must be played prior to every NFL game and all players must be on the sidelines for the National Anthem.
During the National Anthem, players on the field and bench area should stand at attention, face the flag, hold helmets in their left hand, and refrain from talking. The home team should ensure that the American flag is in good condition… It should be pointed out to players and coaches that we continue to be judged by the public in this area of respect for the flag and our country. Failure to be on the field by the start of the National Anthem may result in discipline, such as fines, suspensions, and/or forfeiture of draft choice(s) for violations of the above, including first offenses”
First, read the bill of rights. We all have the right to peacefully protest. Just because your a pro ball player, you do NOT give up your rights.
Be aware. there are many more former rangers that may or may not agree with me. Great. For you loud non Vets, taking a knee IS a sign of respect. We take a knee by a brothers grave and making tactical plans.
If you have not served your country in uniform,
learn from Vets. We believe in teamwork, duty, country, and our brothers of any color.
YES, !!!! THEY CERTAINLY DO HAVE THE RIGHTS. THEY EARNED THE RIGHT BASED ON THE TREATMENT OF AA BY THE SO CALLED POLICE. AND, EVEN WITH THE UNFAIR TREATMENT BY COPS, THEY STILL ARE NOT TRAITORS TO OUR COUNTRY !!
GOD BLESS THEM
Bullshit Happy Jack. You give up the right to speak against what ever your boss says when you are getting a paycheck for doing a job. The protest has nothing to do with freedom of speech which the constitution protects from “The Government”, not your employer. Furthermore, try doing that sort of thing when on active duty in the service. Ha! See how fast you get thrown out like that PO3 in the navy a week or two ago.
The NFL rule book describes proper behavior for the National Anthem. If you choose to pick up an NFL paycheck, then you freely choose to follow the rules that do not allow for anything other than standing at attention during the National Anthem.
HappyJack – Did you every take a knee when ordered to stand at attention? I doubt it!
I stand for the National Anthem and kneel at the cross!
First, let me thank you for your service. I do not doubt your explanation for taking a knee in the context of your service. The NFL players are not attempting to pay any form of respect to anyone or anything. They are entitled to protest, as we all are. Let them do it on their time. When they show up for work, do your job. Who can show up for work and protest something that has nothing to do with their work? Goodby job. They can leave their job and go protest whatever they want. We the fans are being divided by the players, not by our president.
I respect everyone’s right to free speech and right to protest. These overpaid athletes should respect my right to not watch them. I believe in respecting the flag and the national anthem and our armed forces by standing. The NFL has a personal conduct code which they talk about when players do things off the field. Why is there no accountability on the field?
I stand and place my hand over my heart! If someone in this country is offended by it then they should leave and not come back until they show respect for what we believe!
After 32 years in the service and being a member of the Sons of the Confederacy I still salute the flag and say the pledge. I expect my family to do the same. I have two children that were neglected as babies, The are disrespectful like these football players, but the respect the flag. There older brother, a Marine would let them know if they did any thing that did not respect this Nation. Protest other ways, But when you disrespect My Nation, you disrespect me!
When they put one foot on the field they are on the job. Any company that has people hired to do anything and they do something else or hurts the company from making their profits will fire you on the spot. Those NFL players are the highest paid employees in this country and being paid to play sports. This is not about Trump this is about showing respect and honor for our Flag that people have gave their life so we all have the rights of freedom to do the things we do in our country, and to honor and respect our National Anthem for that proclaims our unity and respect for our country and each other as citizens standing together in honor of country and flag as one. So these Players and the teams that the knee the playing of our National Anthem and our Flag should be fired banned from playing the game for no less than 5 years. Thank you for letting me speak out.
I 100% agree with you. They have chosen the wrong format for protesting! No company would allow this on their time. With the money they male they could effect change in their communities. Pissing people off, basically spitting on our soldiers & flag only makes people care even less about their supposed cause.
AMEN!!!
While they are at work and being paid they should not have the right to protest. They can exercise their first amendment rights when they are off the field.
ABSOLUTELY AGREE. iF THEY DON’T RESPECT OUR COUNTRY THEN GET THE HECK OUT OF IT. yOU MAKE MILLIONS OFF US, BUT NOT ANYMORE. i WILL CANCEL ALL BUT NASCAR.
I am with Mary Holton…..and please ‘do’ let the door hit you in the (censored) when you leave. This is what 8 years of the crooked Kiltons and 8 years of the fake American president who was voted in because of his his color has done to this country… by using race as a platform for votes. It has set us back 50 years in race division. I was born and raised in the USA and I feel like a foreigner in my own country. Sick and tired of it.
I support Donald Trump with his statement on football games and the national anthem!
As a vet, my feeling is – On your Feet or On your Face – I won’t tolerate dishonoring those that gave all for our country.
Bodine…. “while they are at work”….???These ‘ real’ racists who kneel ‘Play’ for more money than they deserve. What have they actually accomplished in life besides butting heads and throwing a ball. You call that work. Ha. If they don’t like it here they should leave ….and please ‘do’ let the door hit you in the (censored) when you leave. This is what 8 years of the crooked Kiltons and 8 years of the fake American president who was voted in because of his color has done to this country. They use race as a platform for votes. Obama beat the race drums so hard it could be heard around the world. It has set this country back over 50 years in race division. And then they use the public schools to do the same…. ’The poor blacks’ and those bad white people. The truth is never told to them….’that their OWN people sold them into slavery’. I was born and raised in the USA and I feel like a foreigner in my own country. Sick and tired of it.
Ticket holders did not pay for a political event they pd for a game. They were held prisoners of someone eles’s opinion. It was absolutely the wrong forum! The one player did what was right and he did not dishonor flag and country until he was brow beat and bullied by the coach and players! He had his right to stand. Then obviously back in the locker toom the doodoi hit the fan and he was the fan!
““I’ve made Coach Tomlin look bad, and that is my fault, and that is my fault only,” Villanueva said. “I made my teammates look bad, and that is my fault, and my fault only. And I made the Steelers look bad, and that is my fault, and my fault only. So, unwillingly, I made a mistake.”
I hope they crumble as an organization and as a team and all the others engaged in this do also! One Nation under GOD and One Flag ! They have forgotten both.
BTW I support Pres. Trump!
Do your football job on the field and do your politicking off the field. Your politics is your own business, we fans don’t want to be involved, and demonstrating on the field is in-your-face-politics! Bringing this to sports is poisoning the well that pays you $millions and brings we fans entertainment.
we are flushing ourselves down the toilet and it smells just fine, is what I say. I have seen the gradual and now accelerating demise of all we Americans stood for, called right and even normal. This scenario is just the latest installment, as I weep, broken-hearted, over it all. For me, the poisonous root is the forsaking of the Bible as God’s Holy Word, choosing man’s “wisdom” instead, carte blanche. That is a game changer for sure. Everything is profoundly affected. We are the result of billions of years of “chance” instead of beings created in the image of God Himself, with an innate recognition of that truth. God is not mocked, ignored, forsaken without consequences, both now and eternal. Yes, Virginia, there truly is a heaven and a hell. Also a day of God’s judgment when all will be laid bare in the sight of Him with Whom we have to do. There is “right” and “wrong”. This brave soldier/football player got it right. He stood up for the values that once made our nation great, blessed above any other in the world. If there is no recognition of our wholesale self-destruction with the needful repentance and restoration back to Biblical principles, i.e., calling right and wrong what they are based on God’s inerrant Word, and doing the same, we are a doomed people, literally. I believe everything I just said with everything in me, but do I get to say it without great risk? Nope!!!! How far we have all fallen!!!!! O LORD hear, O LORD judge!!
With the disasters in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and other places going on, and the nuclear threats from North Korea and Iran it seems that the POTUS has other things to be focusing on than someone exercising their 1st amendment rights. I don’t agree with this form of protest but that’s what living in the United States is all about, being able to express differing opinions.
Well said
I think it’s disgraceful that they have shown such disrespect for the country that allows them free speech and the ability to make a very good living playing a game. As someone else has said, do something constructive in the community if you want to change things. If you don’t like things in the United States, then go live somewhere else and see how much freedom you get there to disrespect your country and the people who have fought and died for you to have that freedom.
Well said. They should either not even play the Anthem or respectively salute it. Protest on your own time, not while being paid to entertain.
Anyone and everyone who lives in and loves this country should stand and show their respect for everything the anthem and flag represent. It’s hypocritical to complain about social and financial inequality and injustice when one earns millions upon millions of dollars for simply playing a game. Regardless of what the kneeling players THINK their protest is about, I say it’s about disrespect for the symbols most of us hold dear. When Villanueva said he made a mistake, he proved he caved to the pressure. So I withdraw my praise for him. The NFL has lost my interest.
Kneeling is a form of respect: one kneels to pray; one kneels to be knighted; one kneels to propose marriage; one kneels (or bows/curtsies) before royalty. Kneeling is far more respectful than sitting in these instances.
ISIS makes you kneel right before they cut your head off….kneeling is a sign of submission, not respect as you have claimed in error. Submission to God, the King or Queen, ones mate in proposal is Not respect. It is a binding agreement between those parties involved that one has submitted themselves to. Kneeling also has an inference that the one you kneel to is superior, or a sign of being defeated.
For God’s sake…get an education.
@ H. Gilbert: I agree wholheartedly with your whole message. Kneeling, is “a sign of being defeated.” Yes, get an education all NFL! If their intention is to show solidarity, instead it showed ignorance. This is America, we must respect our Country.
There are other ways to “show solidarity” than using the NFL as a pulpit. The player’s message intent, I submit, was just showing off, like dancing when they score a TD, they had no purposeful reason to do what they did. They reminded me of Hollywood!
I agree with President Trump. Pull the SOBs off the field and send them home and tell them not to let the door knob hit them in the ass as they leave.
Ticket holders did not pay for a political event they pd for a game. They were held prisoners of someone eles’s opinion. It was absolutely the wrong forum! The one player did what was right and he did not dishonor flag and country until he was brow beat and bullied by the coach and players! He had his right to stand. Then obviously back in the locker toom the doodoi hit the fan and he was the fan!
““I’ve made Coach Tomlin look bad, and that is my fault, and that is my fault only,” Villanueva said. “I made my teammates look bad, and that is my fault, and my fault only. And I made the Steelers look bad, and that is my fault, and my fault only. So, unwillingly, I made a mistake.”
I hope they crumble as an organization and as a team and all the others engaged in this do also! One Nation under GOD and One Flag ! They have forgotten both.
everyone should stop going to the games and even watching them on TV. it’s an insult to everyone who has worn a uniform or is wearing one. my best friend died in korea, a brother was captured and still is affected by what he went through, I have family who died in and because of the foreign wars, knew someone who became a living zombie because of what he saw in iran, friends and family who has worn uniforms of police depts., fire and rescue, and a brother watched from his office window as the smoke and fire raised into the skies from the pentagon attack wondering if he’d be called back into service. it’s a slap in the face and an insult to every friend or family member of those left behind by someone who died in war and domestic incidents. not to mention the family members, wives, fathers and kids of survivors of 9/11 and those who survived it and who carry their scars still, visible and the not visible. I think those who attend the games should support those who wear the uniform by becoming soccer or nascar fans and let football die it’s well deserved death. basketball players will also show their disrespect also. and when they apologize it’s not from the heart. this is the true heart of those on the left.
Every person in this Country has a right to protest peacefully, it is guaranteed in our Constitutional Amendments. These athletes have something to say that they want the rest of the Country to hear. The platform they chose to do it in reflects poor taste, not anti-american sentiment. It is also bad judgement by the owners to allow politics in the workplace. If you disagree with their (the players) message, do some soul-searching. If you disagree with their platform, stop watching, as I have. The message is important, the delivery is in the wrong place.
Perfect!
I believe that the NFL players should stand proudly with their heads held high to honor this Country and to all of those who fought for Our Freedom! The NFL players should Not bring their political views and agendas on the football field! They have every right to protest OFF of the football field on their OWN TIME! I am so disappointed in their political views and agendas at this point in time when AMERICA needs ALL people to Stand Together! I always believed that football was a place for Every One to enjoy and have fun. I guess I was wrong. What A SHAME!!!
He stands as a man who respects his country, it’s not about race, it’s about love for country. Many of us have have been in harms way to protect our freedom to be able to play these sport games and be able to watch the games. Stan tall for the flag and later kneel for GOD.
I am done with the NFL. They are all traitors.
If a foe from within strike a blow at her glory,
Down, down, with the traitor that dares to defile
The flag of her stars and the page of her story!
When our land is illum’d with Liberty’s smile,
By the millions unchain’d who our birthright have gained
We will keep her bright blazon forever unstained!
And the Star-Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave
While the land of the free is the home of the brave.
I am an American military veteran, having served 24 years, 4 months and 25 days for my country. There are many ways to protest or represent a social or political statement, but not with the American Flag, National Anthem, or the blood paid for our freedoms. Not only boycott the NFL; boycott all the advertisers as well.
No longer going to support or watch any team/player who does not honor our flag and
national anthem!!!!
Free speech is one thing but respect for our flag and
country which so many have died for the right to
free speech as long as it they respect our country
which has made them rich.
This is not a protest rally at the football game. Those players need to show respect of our country and veterans and soldiers. If it wasn’t for them, they would not be playing football. Keep politics and protests outside the stadium.
I feel it is disrespectful to kneel. There are other ways to voice your opinion that doesn’t hurt what the flag stands for. Spend some of those high wages of yours and start up a program that would fight for your beliefs. Don’t disrespect the flag.
I believe the USA is the greatest nation in the world. There are countless opportunities to make something of oneself. Sure, we have problems; but regardless of what some people say. when you do not stand at attention during the playing of our National Anthem, you are disrespecting what the USA, its flag, & anthem stand for., The NFL has rules in its ‘handbook’ that state all players will stand with helmet in left hand and not talking or there will be consequences. Why doesn’t the league follow its own regulation? Selfish, overpaid, & misinformed athletes are causing division in this great country. By the way, I have been involved in sports (playing, & officiating) for 61 years, so I am not against sports or athletes.
Everyone in the USA should celebrate the flag for the support of veterans who are scarred and killed honoring the flag. The flag celebrates America-If you don’t like it-LEAVE– also leave all your millions here too.
Politics need to remain out of athletic events. They are all deplorables and are totally ignorant of the facts because they have followed the leaders who offered the liberal cancer lie. We are sick of what liberals have and will do to the culture and fabric of our country. This is dividing and the owners need to stand up and get the facts. Players can do something to help on their own time.
PLANES ARE LEAVING THIS COUNTRY EVERY DAY. ALL OF THEM SHOULD GET ON ONE AND NEVER COME BACK,
I support the peaceful right to protest under the 1st amendment. No one not even the president has the right to prevent that or ask for any r.eprisals
boycot the nfl
I find Villanueva’s apology offensive. I was happy to see him stand out there for the National Anthem. But then he apologizes so he’s no better than any of the rest of them. I find their behavior offensive and disrespectful. They have the right to protest, but that’s not why people go to see football games. There are better venues for protesting. Have any of these “protestors” written any letters to their elected officials? Have they joined in any other demonstrations? It’s two minutes or less of standing there while a song plays. Is that really too much to ask of these spoiled millionaires? I hope attendance and viewership continue to drop and half of the entire NFL players lose their job. What do you think they would be protesting then?
Every person in America has the right to protest (peacefully) and to try to effect change for the good. There must be a different way to protest. The way the players are doing it now, shows disrespect for our country, anthem and flag and all who have died to keep that freedom. I like what the Cowboys did (they came out early, all knelt, then later stood for the anthem & flag. Find a different way to protest.
I think football players get paid too much money, and I think everyone should stand during the national anthem no matter what. If NFL players want to protest , they should do it during the game. Maybe at half time, that would be better then some of that nonsense that goes on.
I’m disappointed Villanueva apologized. He had nothing to apologize for. I understand everyone has the right to free speech, etc. But, I think it is in very poor taste to demonstrate this way. This is disrespectful to America and everyone that fought for our country…….not the president. Find another way to “make a difference”.
Here is a letter I have sent to my local newspaper in hopes that they will publish it: My Father was drafted into WWII military service as a Senior in High School. He was glad to go and serve his country and was excited to find out that he could actually pick what branch of service he would like to serve in (Navy). He served his country and returned home to continue his life. He learned a trade, got married, traveled the country following work and only after his two children were in school did he pursue his GED. He passed away a little over three years ago at the age of 87. Yesterday, my Mother and I attended a memorial service for a friend of his whom recently passed away and he to, had served his country in WW II (Army). He became a well educated man and went on to become an accomplished and respected educator/teacher in Odessa, TX. He even continued this in his retirement teaching Senior Citizens how to use computers.
As the ROTC Honor Guard folded and presented the Flag to his Widow and thanked her for his service to the country, tears came to my eyes.
Later on that evening the normal sports programs came on television (NFL Football & MLB Baseball). As I watched the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals players, coaches and owners kneel before the National Anthem and then stand with their arm linked with no hands over their hearts I could feel nothing but anger at their disrespect for the flag that symbolizes everything about America. Also, the disrespect for ever past and present veteran that has given their time or their lives in service to this country. Needless to say, I switched stations and watched the Texas Rangers play.
I was also made aware of a lone Pittsburg Steelers player by the name of Alejandro Villanueva who stood by himself outside the team tunnel at Soldier Field with his hand over his heart during the National Anthem while the rest of the team stayed in the locker room. (He has been a Commissioned Officer in the US Army and a member of the elite Rangers) He has said in retrospect that he should apologize to his team mates for doing so???? NO, as far as I am concerned, the rest of the organization needs to apologize to him for the disrespect they were showing for their country and his service to this great country!
Apparently, these so-called professional athletes, coaches and owners don’t remember their AMERICAN HISTORY and what others in the past did that gives them the right to have the prosperity they enjoy so freely. Most of these professional athletes, coaches and owners make more income in one day than most Americans make in several years or a lifetime. Why don’t they use their resources ($) to aid their causes rather cause unrest in our society. I can do without the NFL or any other entertainment (and that’s all it is) until they come to their senses, if they ever do.
One more thing, some are blaming the President for dividing the country. As far as I have been able to tell in my nearly 60 years on this earth, we, the people have always been divided in some shape or form. Democrat or Republican, white collar or blue collar, rich or poor, fat or skinny, we divide ourselves, no one person is responsible for that!
YES. At leas tthis kid had the nerve to attempt to respect his/our American Heritage These core values just got overridden by this, disrespectful of America, coach and teammates who voted against themselves and America. Today, NFL coaches and players alike, have little respectful regard for the price of freedom paid by Black , Caucasian, Asian i.e. All Americans!! The entirety of the NFL owes America and our American President Elect Donald Trump an apology. They owe all the Veterans of war and their fallen comrades who jeopardized their lives for our country an apology.
The apology disgustingly depicts the rotting and deterioration of America’s core values in our American Sports Arenas.
Once we had red blooded American coaches and youths with American core values in our “Professional” American sports arenas No more Today!! The NFL and the American Sports Arenas as a whole all have a growing anti American stench.
No, If they don’t love this country they should leave it.
We no longer watch the NFL , This Great Country means more to us than those very wealthy guys who play football, Lets see how many put their money where their mouth/knee is!!!
I am an 82nd Airborne veteran who lost a good friend and brother in Granada in 1982 and have lost more brothers since then. Does it offend me? NO. I have knelt many times over the yrs at the graveside or on the tarmac as my brothers were being sent off to their final resting place to show my HONOR, RESPECT and to pray that they be let into heaven because they had hell on earth.
I applaud these men. Kneeling before a king or queen is a sign of respect, kneeling to pray to our heavenly father is a sign of respect and kneeling before our flag shows our respect as well.
WRONG !
Kneeling is a sign of SUBMISSION or of having been
defeated.
Plus, if you’re a vet as claimed, you should have been standing at attention holding a salute at your buddies service. That’s the PROPER military conduct that’s been crystal clear for the last 200 years or so.
Protesting the United States of America in such a manner has exposed the true feelings of players and ownership and will ultimately reveal whether American citizens will support their passion (Pro Football) over their Nation. With “all its problems” the USA is still the best nation on earth. Even conscientious objector (during the Viet Nam war) Muhammad Ali stated, when asked what he thought of Africa after a championship fight, “I’m glad my grand-daddy got on that boat.” If the NFL does not change its ways, I am done with it and if Major League Baseball follows the NFL’s lead, I am done with my main sports passion, too. The owners should state up front: Protest at the singing of the National Anthem is not acceptable behavior, period.
I believe that Villanueva’s remark last year hit the nail on the head. Too bad he felt pressured to backtrack on his recent actions. Just because the NFL provides a stage for protest doesn’t mean that it is the place to disrespect the flag. People tune in to see a game, not someone’s personal stance on political views. These players are paid to do a job and nothing more. Personal viewpoints should be aired off the field. For my husband and me, we are no longer watching the NFL. It’s college football from now on.
The Rules
Apparently the NFL doesen’t read THEIR OWN league rule book anymore.
Refer to below.
“The specific NFL rule pertaining to the national anthem is found on pages A62-63 of the league rulebook. It states:
The National Anthem must be played prior to every NFL game, and all players must be on the sideline for the National Anthem.
“During the National Anthem, players on the field and bench area should stand at attention, face the flag, hold helmets in their left hand,
and refrain from talking. The home team should ensure that the American flag is in good condition. It should be pointed out to players and
coaches that we continue to be judged by the public in this area of respect for the flag and our country.
Failure to be on the field by the start of the National Anthem result in discipline, such as fines, suspensions,
and/or the forfeiture of draft choice(s) for violations of the above, including first offenses.”
Reverence for our flag should be the only consideration during public playing or singing of the national anthem. Those are not the times to protest real or imagined personal “wrongs.” Shame on the protestor!
I think Villanueva was right and brave the first time. Too back he had to give in to the pressure and back peddle
Overpaid millionaires protesting America. Go try & make that money somewhere else!
These nfl little boys are disrespecting our flag, our Country and all the brave men and women who fight and who have died for their rights and freedom to play their game. I am a Marine Corps Viet Nam Vet and will no longer watch any nfl games.
I think they have enough of everything what more do they want these demands are dividing this country, shame on them . I’m with Trump on this!
I think the people who support the sport should stop the attending or watching the game. WHY support a game that does not support the very country allowing them the freedom to play.
It is disrespectful there are other way and all lives mater not just black lives.
people need to boycott these millionaire crybabies!
Respect the flag. Never allowed to kneel while national anthem is played. WHAT PERCENTAGE of black athletes served in the armed forces. Very low i assume and that is part of problem. NO RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY OR COUNTRY.
respecting our flag has nothing to do with race. those players who disrespect our flag need to tell that to the families of the marines who died in ww1 and 2 and korea and vietnam. what about the marines who gave it all to plant our flag at mt. seribachi. those players are the racist. they make a fortune and are wining about inequality. they are ungrateful sons of bitches. shame on the ones are vets who back them up pres trump is right. the national anthem and our flag represent our once great country. lets get it back and quit playing the racist card and starting acting like real patriotic americans, instead of looking at skin color. signed a disabled vet.
What about coverage of all the black on black killings , everyday , in Chicago. Even that is spreading. What’s driving that? It can’t be repression, they have a choice. I am not holding them back. they have a choice and a will like everyone else.
I agree with OUR PRESIDENT all the way
I won’t watch another NFL game. Take you so called protest somewhere else. You’re overpaid whinners who don’t have a clue what it really takes to be a true hero like our Military, Police and Fireman. GET A LIFE AND A CLUE
STAND FOR THE FLAG !!!!!
As a 26-year Army veteran, I am appalled at the actions of the NFL players who kneel during OUR National anthem. I was all set to watch the Colts play the Browns last Sunday, when the cameras panned over the Browns players that were kneeling and that was it for football for me. I changed the channel and have not watched a game since. I don’t mind protest, but it’s the brave men and women of or military that fight and die for OUR right to protest, and OUR flag represents them along with us. I’m back to America Love it or LEAVE it.
The nfl (I choose to not capitalize to show how I don’t respect them) is state funded. This means they get tax payer $. These guys are spoiled brats. Cut their pay by a million or 2 and don’t get state tax payer dollars. They make more $ in a YEAR than many people make in a lifetime and they’re crying about social injustice?! In the last YEAR since the kneeling began, what positive social change has come around because of them disrespecting our military men and women??? How much of their own $ have they put towards making social change and evening out the distribution of wealth to the black community? I think all they’ve managed to do is make themselves look like asses and pissed off their fans.
no! no! no!
I think there wrong, if they want to protest they should do it on there time not nfl time. There a time and place for eveything NOT NFL time.
We all choose how to earn a living with our talents and interests. I’m not of color and my only claim of minority is of being a hard working smuck. I did not have brains for a college scholarship or family money to keep me in college anyway. I served 20 years honorably, and continue to live with honor and pay my own bills. If you can’t respect our country’s customs and ways of life, please leave peacefully. Make room for a True American.
We live in the land of the free, home of the brave. While I always stand for the National Anthem, I feel it is an honor and a privilege to do so NOT a requirement!
The only thing I disagree with in Villaneuva’s actions during the playing of the national anthem ————– was subsequently apologizing for them.
It ashamed that they don’t to at the end of the game!!!they very disappointing to the flag,and country,and
STAND FOR THE NATIONAL ANTHEM NO QUESTION ABOUT IT.OTHER WISE DONT BOTHER TO SHOW UP
Me and my family stopped watching football last year and did not renew our season tickets this year
I believe what the NFL or any other leagues should be terminated as what Trump said is 100% correct.
Also the player statement was way out of control did not appreciate his stmt. I served in the vietnam era The FLAG & NAT. ANTHEM IS WHAT WE STAND FOR. AMERICA THE GREAT!!!
I believe that fans who are angered by players’ disrespect for the flag should respond by refusing to buy fan products that promote and enrich those players. Same goes for team products of those managements that support this behavior. Vote with your wallet!
IHighly disapointed in the whole situation. I spent
thirty years defending that flag . I’m told 80% of the
players are of African desent maybe that is where they should go.
They should all be standing. It shows respect.
Why disrespect the flag, the anthem, the fans, and your team? How about supporting your country that gave you and me this “right” to do exactly what we’re all doing with this issue. Find a better way to “protest” like maybe using that cool 16K to help inner-city kids or Big Brothers and Sisters. You can’t “dis” your fan base and expect anything less than the response you received from this great nation.
This is just one of the notes I have sent on this topic. :This is simple. All the players who “expressing” themselves are hypocrites. Here they are signing huge contracts. even the very few who have the NFL base salary is about $500,000. Not including any bonuses. Plus they don’t pay for travel or lodging or food. Most are multi millionaires. Let them try to do this in ANY OTHER COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!! There is football in Canada, let Colin K. and his ilk go and play there and see how they do. Yes this is coming from a black skinned man who has had racial issues. This country is far from perfect and NEVER will be. But there isn’t a large a rush of people trying to get into ANY other country in the world as is the USA. Also some of the issue the black community does not want to talk about. Like non native born blacks are more successful and lower crime than native born. Black on black crime is the number one killer of blacks, not cops and I am NOT a cop fan. They are necessary but not a day goes by where I don’t see them breaking or abusing the laws they are sworn to uphold. This President, like him or not has the same ignorance of ANY rich white person than never had to deal with minorities of ANY stripe, other than as workers or domestics. These players want to make a difference? Instead of disrespecting the Anthem and the flag, stop buying there tricked out cars, and mansions. Pay for joint PSA’s, use your platforms and money to form a new players group dedicated to working in state and federal legislatures, sponsoring programs, doing oversight and enforcement of current laws. Go into the local city councils and county governments to do the same. Use your money to make the organizations like the Boys and Girls clubs have more of an impact to keep minority kids off the street. Sponsor after school education programs that get them jobs or into tech schools, so they don’t see gangs as the way to go. Therfore getting on the radar of the police. The millions they make could go a long way to help spruce up and clean up their old neighborhoods. A busted down neighborhood is ignored and easy targets for crime. These and more would be constructive things to REALLY do something and make real change. Not these showboating look at me stunts. But they won’t do this, WHY? It would require a REAL commitment and not just making noise.
Now this has spread to baseball. I have stopped watching ANY sport that does this. This is NOT about free speech. They are EMPLOYEES! If I were to do something that was disrespectful or distasteful my employer has the right to fire or do disciplinary action, and I work for a governmental agency in the PUBLIC sector. Not a private business like sports. Protest AFTER work. You mean to tell me if NFL star players or even a large group of regular ones, all appeared on the steps of the US capitol there would not be media coverage? Then they could go in a testify. You think THAT wouldn’t be covered as well? Instead of the disrespect shown to those whose coffins were draped in that flag and who saluted that anthem every day. Now they encourage kids to disrespect both. Schools where flags are put on the floor to be walked on or children encouraged not to stand during the pledge. If this keeps up soon we won’t have a country. Try this in ANY other country and see what happens to you! The players were talking about tyranny. Have them try to live in North Korea, or Mainland China or any one of the dictatorships in Africa. Or for that matter Argentina or Venezuela, They would see what REAL tyranny is. I know nobody will read this and it won’t go any farther than this. But I have served and both my parents were legal immigrants. They knew the bad of this country. But NO place else on EARTH would they have rather been living. And my mom was living in our northern neighbor Canada. She still wanted to be here in the U.S.
Happy Jack: First, thank you for your service. I am an Army veteran also and I have always felt that our flag is the symbol of the great freedom we enjoy in this great country. I do not think the flag has anything to do with racial injustice. Those who wish to change things in our country should spend their off-duty time volunteering help to those less fortunate to make their life more satisfactory. Leave the flag alone, be proud of your country and show your respect for those who serve it to the best of their ability.
It was already divisive before President Trump commented. Many fans were all deciding to stop supporting NFL well before Sunday. Football is supposed to be for everyone so politics divides and especially when it shows disrespect to the symbols of our freedoms. Just because we have the freedom to do something should we do it? Sometimes wisdom is prudent.
I think that disrespecting the flag and all the men and women that died for it every one should stand.
If the owner and player millionaires with their over inflated notion of self-worth are actually serious about the subject of their protest there are much more effective ways to actively protest than a limp display of their displeasure during our National Anthem. Until they grow up, I’ll be watching High School and College Football comprised of players who stand and respect this country when our National Anthem is played and whose only reward for playing is the joy of the game. Something most of our protesting millionaires lost a long time ago.
Absolutely NO ONE should be sitting or kneeling during the national anthem unless they are physically unable to do so.
I too was a soldier in this mans army and that’s what we fight for.. For the rights granted us by the constitution, for liberty and justice for ALL!!! One man’s opinion does not a FREE COUNTRY make. So if you agree or disagree, each and every citizen has the right to protest the way way he or she so chooses as long as it’s done in a peaceful manner.. You never hear anyone getting angered or protesting over all of these “Americans” desecrating the US Flag by wearing it as articles of clothing… That’s a far greater offense than taking a knee during the playing of the anthem as far as I’m concerned… Yet this is done all day every day in America… Speak on that…
The players do not have the right to disrespect the flag or the national anthem. There a many different ways that they could protest besides that. I use to love to watch football games, but i have not watched a game since all of this mess started and I will not watch any until they quit this mess. As for the one who said that he messed up, they got to him did,n’t they. I am sorry that they forced him to say he messed up. As for the young Blacks that have been killed by the Police, there are more Black men killed by other Black men every day, why aren’t they trying to something about that. As for the pay rate that Blacks receive, check the pay rate that women receive. The men are still paid more than women to this day.
So many great Americans have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. It is so selfish and unprofessional for these over paid athletes to disrespect the people who have given them their freedom.
I am to keep my kids out of the game with that display. They know nothing and it ruins their respect for their favorites. These kids will grow up to be soldiers policemen etc.
AT FIRST I CONGRATULATED HIM. THE NEXT DAY I GAVE HIS JERSEY AWAY. MISPLACED ALLEGIANCE. NOW THE NFL HAS MADE IT A TRUMP PROBLEM, AND IT ISN’T. TPOTUS SHOULD HAVE KEPT HIS MOUTH SHUT THIS TIME AND NO SWEARING–SHAME ON HIM.
happy he did stand for the anthem did not like his later apology
When the one player stood alone, I was proud of him for his bravery but then he apologized for doing that and that was disgusting . I think when the NFL refuses to stand up for the National Anthem, that’s when the “buck” stops from the American people and they should stop going and watching the games, they should not get paid when they disrespect our Country, our flag, or our National anthem.
Villanueva should have never given in. He’s a hero. The rest are coddled, illiterate multi-millionaire Cro-Magnons chasing a ball. Let them go to war. Chase an enemy. NFL was sport and entertainment. I will never watch an NFL game.
There is actually an NFL rule that states that the players are required to stand with their helmets removed and at their side during the national anthem. The NFL commissioner just doesn’t have the guts to enforce it.
These players are followers. Not leaders. Colin Koepernick started this when he chose to disrespect the country and our flag. He may have made a bad choice. Either way, the other players started following him. If Koepernick wanted to do some good he could become a policeman and see what it is like to have to make a quick decision when someone turns and pulls an object from their pocket.
The NFL is 70% black athletes. I guess that is racial disparity. But which race?
The NFL players are also free to leave the USA and go play pro football in any country they choose. Let’s see how that works!
I will never watch a nfL game again! I think it was very disrespectful towards our country and brave servicemen putting their lives on the line everyday. The only reason you guys are being overpaid and able to play this game is because of them ! You don’t deserve it! You stand behind your teammates, but you don’t stand behind your president or your country, which made it possible for you to have what you have! Shame on you! And will everyone Quit playing the poor me racist card! All of you are making more money than any athlete, and now acting like little children ! Freedom of speech doesn’t mean it’s ok to DISRESPECT! If your not proud of where you live, you also have the freedom to leave! Good luck NFL. Sone to be “No Fans Left”
Frankly everyone has got this all wrong. Kneeling is a sign/recognition of submission, not disrespect. But the idiot media have launched a campaign of destruction to create controversy. Once these idiots realize they have picked the wrong icon, they will probably freak out and resort to a more graphic form of disrespect i.e there middle finger.
I donot believe that the football field or any sport event is a place to protest anything. I am very disappointed in any player that dose so. That shows disrespect for out country and our fighting men and women. Thank you for letting me speak.
The correct protocol is to stand with respect for the presentation of our national flag and anthem. The NFL should enforce its policy for players to be on the field standing for the anthem. Politics should be removed from the game. We do not go to NFL games for a display of political opinions.
NO NFL PLAYERS should not be allowed to kneel or sit during the NATIONAL ANTHEM, If these PANZY ASSED BLACK PLAYERS want to protest they can stand kneel or sit on a street corner Monday thru Friday with a sign and protest all they want. THE FOOTBALL FILD IS FOR FOOTBALL PERIOD.
STAND against Issues, Kneel for Prayer.. Take politics OUT of sports. Take your issues to Washington, not on a ball field towards the “American” Flag or the Star Spangled Banner. Everyone has every RIGHT to protest, remember how everyone got those rights, By members of the Armed Forces fighting to keep America Free, and by Veterans too. Many have died protecting your right to fist pump or kneel, remember that, so when you kneel during the Star Spangled Banner, you disrespect Past and present Soldiers. All Sports team owners, players, staff… for 1 year, swap your paychecks with a Soldier. He wears a Military uniform, bullet proof vest, carries a hell of a lot of ammo, and a rifle, away from his loved ones months to years, in a foreign country. many have died for your right to play a sport you love and earn a hell of a lot of money doing it..Players wear sport uniforms, carry a football, baseball/ baseball bat, hockey stick, basketball, away from loved ones for a couple of hours..The United States of AMERICA is NOT a perfect country at all, boy do we have problems here, BUT we don’t have many of the problems that other foreign countries have..Because We are in the Land Of The Free, Because We are the Home of the Brave
I was proud of Villanueva for standing up for his beliefs. i was disappointed when he apologized for it. If you aren’t proud of this country and those who fight and die for it, then leave. This only devides us more.
I have been watching football since I was 14 years old . I loved the cleveland browns and have bought alot of there stuff but it is all packed away . I have not watch football because I disagree with the players choice . Yes they have there opinion. But when your family goes overseas to protect there butts they need to respect are flag . Because of are miltary they are able to play ball and make the money . Why some of our vets are homeless , straving, and waitting to get medical help . So keep taking a knee , but when you take that knee in protest think about who you really have to thank about playing ball and making the money .
The NFL rules in part say all players will stand at attention with their hand over their heart and look at the FLAG during the National Anthem. I believe they should follow their own rules in honor of our Nation and our military. I think the NFL is wrong in letting this happen.
2 sides! side 1:Patriots and lovers of country
side 2: haters and traitors!!
These players, coaches, owners are ridiculous.
They have no reason to disrespect our beautiful flag nor our national anthem. They can protest all they want in private but not when the rules of the NFL state clearly they are to stand with hand over heart in respect. I’d say fire the whole bunch and start over.
Vilanova shouldn”t apalogize he is true Patriot. The coach and team members should apologize to Team United States. The owners should state what you do on my team is listen to the boss; once you go outside the stadium its your business!!
People in this protest chose the most unintelligent venue to use. An attack on the very people that fought and died or were so horribly wounded for the rest of their life so that we could protest without fear of imprisonment.
These honorable people are not around to defend this misplaced protest, so it is the duty of those that have remained so silent on so many issues in the past to shout out what they feel! Don’t let silence define us.
There is the 1st amendment to the Constitution, which states that we all have freedom of speech. Through subsequent court cases, we all have freedom of speech which does not harm others. Is the act of kneeling during the playing of the national anthem disrespectful to the U.S.? Yes, of course it is. But then, we must all realize that nations no longer control the world. Profitable corporations rule the world of law now. And, for truly God-respecting people to escape the tyranny of the corporations? Well, the words of the song “Territories” by the Canadian band Rush come to mind: Better the pride that resides in a citizen of the world, than the pride that divides when a colorful rag is unfurled. A nation’s flag is a colorful rag, and simply being patriotic without any critical thought is what has led millions of people to their deaths needlessly. Granted, the “law” of the survival of the fittest has played it’s part in this propaganda game. The two greatest methods of population control have always been war and diseases. There are only two ways to control a society: through hope, or through fear. Who are you going to believe?
My Dad always said: The day you stop learning is the day you die.
I feel each player that participates in this disrespect should at a minimum be fined $2500.00 for each occurrence with the NFL donating the proceeds to a good veterans organization. A lot of them could use the help. This country’s veterans Have given life and limb to protect the jackasses right to be disrespectful of them, and our flag. Until this is resolved I will not be attending any games in Seattle, buying fan gear or purchasing from any sponsor.
Thanks for your neutral report. Personally, I’m fed up with Trump”s divisiveness, and distraction from real issues like Puerto Rico. It used to be in America, kneeling was a symbol of deepest respect. I think this is an honorable way to draw attenthe inequality, bigotry and hatred in our country, which it seems our president deliberately inflames, rather than helping us heal it.
elites decides few years back they will need entertainment once they crawl out of our bunkers so they signed them up few years back ,as much fame and money they get you think they be thankfull but u can see it was owners/trainers planned all this was proud of villanueva untill next day, shame to ,bet they told him no job if…. he didnt apol. figures
I am/was a Dallas Cowboys fan. I was thinking about buying a Alejandro Villanueva jersey,,,until he apologized. We put up with a lot of ‘she it’ from these players and still watch the games. However,,,when it comes time for them to disrespect our Country, Flag and Anthem, I say GFY.
I think the NFL is making a huge mistake and is disrespecting our flag and country. The players should be fined and the money sent to our veterans who served under our flag. Villanueva should have not apologize. He stood for his country then backed down (not happy about that).
I just wrote a long comment. In short Zi support him. We all get a bit complacent and take things for granted. People like him who are courageous enough to act and wake us up will make us think about our country, our ideals and not just take things for granted. Taking things for granted is far the more dangerous road!!
Yes, there is inequality. Yes they should protest that inequality. Kneeling has created attention toward that inequality. Unfortunately, the discussion has centered on the not standing part instead of toward the inequality part. To change the focus of the discussion toward the inequality, they should kneel first and stand for the Anthem, OR kneel and then stand with a ‘V’ sign, etc..
Why is it that everyone thinks it’s ok for pro athletes to protest at their job but my wife who works at ATT will be fired if she wears a shirt with any thing that even remotely suggests republican beliefs or anti-liberal ideas.
I don’t know what has happened to our country. When one kneels during the National Anthem, they disrespect my flag and the country. I am a Vet and proud of it!! By the way respect is EARNED not GIVEN! If you don’t earn it you don’t deserve it!!!
Capt Villanueva – You are in my mind a perfect example of what all NFL players should be striving to achieve. It is regretful that social pressure caused you to recant. You must do what you must do (and I believe the coach owes you an apology) but you will be long remembered for your expression of courage and correctness. I salute you sir!
The National Anthem is about the nation, not individuals. Maybe we should take the word “national” out of the National Football League. Let’s just call them The Football League and no NFC or AFC. Who else can go to work, do this and remain employed? I call B. S. on what they are doing.
If they want to protest something they should find another way to do so and hopefully one that is constructive and actually helps Afroamericans better their lives. Politics should be kept off the playing field. We are all Americans and as such should honor and respect our flag and anthem. What these players are doing makes them look like whiny brats.
I have looked forward to relaxing & watching NFL games for 30+ years. Now, many of the players, & some teams think during the national anthem is the time to protest and display grievances. Due to there ignorance & contempt for the USA I will no longer care who is playing , or who won. I too have contempt now ,and it’s for the nfl. .. I do however have a great amount of respect for Villanueva #78.
Mr. Villanueva did what he thought was right. But, keep in mind, EVERYONE should have the same right to express themselves peacefully. So, yes, anyone should be able to kneel during the National Anthem if they so choose. After all, this is a free country that grants freedom of speech. And, once and for all, the kneeling is NOT in disrespect to America, the flag, veterans or the military. It’s calling our attention to the injustices of RACISM, POLICE BRUTALITY, and INEQUALITY in this country that the Anthem is about. It’s high time we took the focus OFF of an erroneous belief of disrespect and focus on the real issues here. Fix the racial hatred in this country, and I guarantee the protests will cease.
The truth is, though the government says all men are created equal, I know Black people are not treated equally with white people. And police harass, shoot, and kill Black people where they would not a white person. This is sad and wrong. So these men have a right to protest. If I had the chance, I, an 84 year old privileged white woman, would kneel with them, because they are right, and have the right to peacefully protest.
Standing for the national anthem is an honer to do so. If you do not like this juster, then maybe one should go and find another nation that will pay you the funds that the USA does just for playing a game. The men & women that laid their life down for you the have the freedom to to have the right to be an American and act like the way that you do. Have your protest on your time, not on my time that I paid to watch the game. You are @ work, so like an adult not the spoiled child with your tantrum. America, love it or leave it
No. Th NFL players should stand for the national anthem. If they want to kneel or sit then I don’t want to watch.
Being 86 years old, I have watched the black communities/persons put themselves in the position that they are in. Democracy is built on law abiding citizens for everyone. Education and jobs are available for those who want to have better lives. It’s time the black leaders take care of their people and teach them how to work, learn and earn their respect. History cannot be changed; but you can move on to better things. Freedom is not free! We have to work for it. Demonstrations and disrespect toward our flag and country will NOT gain anything for you.
Why don’t we just let all of our rights be taken away! This country was founded upon protest and the protest that are taking place are NOT disrespecting a damn thing! The way our government is today, the whole country should be kneeling. Do you people who think it is wrong to protest have your heads stuck in the sand?
I think every American should stand. I do when ever possible. Both of my grandfather’s were in world war two and son inlaw in the service. Love it or leave it. I thought he was right and should not have apologized for it. He did not make the Pittsburgh Steelers look bad they did that themselves. Never apologize for for standing up for what you believe.
I am a veteran. This IS NOT about constitutional rights, ALL military members understand the constitution, and WILL fight to death for it. This IS about respect for the Country, Military, and Flag of the United States. ALL should stand PROUD with right hand over heart, or salute. NO MORE DISRESPECT will be tolerated, or NFL = NO FANS LEFT. Also ALL other Americans should understand that protesting peacefully, IS ACCEPTABLE, just NOT over our TRUE symbol of unity.
I am a US Navy veteran of WW2, The China civil war in 1948,The Korean War Era, and the Cold War. 1946 to 1951. I lost shipmates at sea and elsewhere during and after my service time. However, we all served for continuing our Freedom. Yes I support them, but abhor their actions. It is like burning our flag, I can only pick up the pieces and destroy them legally. May God Help the USA. I BELIEVE HE WILL. Thank You.
I am very saddened by the fact that these football players feel the need to disrespect our anthem, our flag, our country, and the many people have fought and died for our freedom. I especially feel sad that Villanueva was so pressured by the other players for his display of patriotism that felt the need to apologize for his action. The many people who paid the ultimate price for our country and our freedom had every color of skin under our sun, but their blood was all the same color. I feel that the type of protest that these football players performed could have been displayed in a much more positive way. They could have started a PSA program like “Football Players for Racial Equality” and had an announcement during halftime. The could have done PSA commercials during the game stating their viewpoint. The players could go to schools, colleges, and public events together and share their concerns. The way these players chose to demonstrate their concerns angered and confused people and only served to create dissension. A more constructive approach would have educated and united everyone. To steal from a famous quote, I may not agree with the way they protested their views, but I will defend to the death their right to protest, because I am a patriot through and through.
I am so appalled when a US Army Vet has to apologize to the public showing his love for a flag he has risked his life for. If these football players want to make a difference in inequality please ask them to enlist in one of many different law enforcement and or military organizations..risk their lives..and give up milllions of dollars a year to play.a game….something they love. Im embarrassed they kneel or lock arms..but maybe they can find another way to protest. Im a nurse. I cannot show disrespect to a patient I know murdered a child or raped an old lady. I have to show him dignity and respect. Im asking the NFL to respect America…. show solidarity to the world that despite our faults..we are still the best place on earth to live. I wont knowingly give a dime to any NFL agenda until they respect my country. Shame on them.
Very disrespectful to our country. I will NEVER watch the nfl again.
I’m from a large military family with two gold stars, many bronze & silver stars and purple hearts. I detest what the NFL players are doing and appreciate what the ones that stand with their hands over their hearts must be going through.
the owners of the team should have told their players to stand for the Flag and the National Anthem, they would have given respect to all our military men and women that have fought and died for our freedom, FREEDOM IS NOT FREE, I think what they did was despicable, and I applauded Alejandro Villanueva for standing up and doing the right thing, it’s despicable that his coach would make him feel that he had to apologize
Villaneuva had my respect for recognizing and having the courage to demonstrate that his country is bigger than his team. Respect lost. I’m sure the pressure was great, but I’m seriously disappointed that he folded to it.
So Bad, So Sad, BY BY. Watch, not any more. 36 yrs serving this country, to see this happen, crash and burn.
Alejandro Villanueva has my greatest respect for showing his respect for our country, both in his service and his standing for the national anthum.
I understand his apology as a team member. He was not apologizing for showing his respect for our country, but for letting his team members down, by not showing unity. I for one am greatful that he begged forgiveness after instead of showing solidarity against his own concience.
I support freedom of speech, but kneeling through our anthum is most decidedly not SPEECH.
Ball players have the national ear, and have a right to use that forum to advance their causes, but disrespecting our country should enrage ALL of our citizens.
Team owners should draw that line. They have morals clauses and sit players out for actions that happen off the field. Should that not also apply to UNPATRIOTIC behavior that occurs on the feild.
I believe everyone should stand with their hand over their heart in respect of our flag, our anthem and most importantly in respect for all the men and women who fought for our freedom and sometimes gave the ultimate sacrifice. I think it was terrible that the guy apologized the next day after he stood in defiance of the team vote not to go out of the locker room the day before while the anthem was playing. Shame on him and all teams that disrespect our country that way. A sport is not the place to protest. It was not a game for our soldiers in harms way all over this world. They deserve respect.
Villaneuva is a hero. He apologized for making his coach and team look bad NOT for standing during the playing of the national anthem.
Fire all the stupid racebaiting kneelers. They want to kneel then go to church and pray to the God who gave you the privilege of being an American. Thank him for the blessing he has bestowed upon America. Show respect for for the dead patriots that bought your freedom with their blood. Fire every last one of them. I for one will not watch another football game until the league puts a stop to this disgraceful behaviour.
I agree with all of the NFL members. It is their right, the reason our soldiers have fought and died for. If one person chooses to stand because of what the flag represents to them then I agree and will applaud them. If one person kneels to show their peaceful protest then I agree and will applaud them. To show disrespect, to belittle, to slander any person for your beliefs is NOT the actions of a respectable person.
The NFL players should stand and salute the flag during the national anthem because the flag stands for our country and the servicemen who died defending our freedoms. It is absolutely not the time to play their little political games. Villanueva should not apologize for what he did. His team and his coach made themselves look bad. He was the only one patriotic enough to come out. The rest of them are whiney snowflakes who should be booed every time they come out. Maybe the crowd should all turn their backs on them and boycott the games.
Crying racial inequality in this country by a black man is insane. Football games are not the place to protest your political or personal views. I wish they would all get fired the the team owners lose all the money they have. GET OUT OF AMERICA and go someplace else better if you can find it.
I’m a proud vet.
His quote from the ESPN interview hits it on the head from my perspective. There are other ways to protest rather than showing disrespect to the flag and the nation that has provided so much for them and for all of us and for the nation where so many died to give us the freedom that we have
No one, for any reason, should disrespect the flag of America. This is a senseless protest which will do nothing but infuriate fans. If, in fact, they are protesting injustice, why don’t they take their millions and help their communities learn to obey the law and get educated??
let them move to Cuba or Venesuella if they think it’s bad here, rich idiots
I do not believe that our athletes should be allowed to kneel at the playing of the National Anthem. I believe there is a difference between Freedom of Speech and respect for our flag and our Country.
However, now that Newt Gingrich brought out the fact that Kapernick turned to Islam just before he started the kneeling, it might not be about racism at all, but about trying to take away some of our American way of life, like playing the National Anthem before every game being played!! What a great way to start chipping away at the Constitution and the American way of life than to start with that!!
I agree with the NFL players “taking a knee” during the National Anthem. It was started as one man’s way of protesting racism in America (and the 3rd racist verse in the anthem). Colin Kaepernick started kneeling after speaking with a veteran who didn’t like Colin sitting. At the end of a military funeral a folded flag is given to the family by a kneeling military man. So Colin and the veteran decided kneeling would not insult veterans yet keep the spirit of the protest. Until racism no longer casts it’s long shadow over the U.S.A. the protests should continue. I think Colin Kaepernick is a very brave man.
Yes I think they should stand and as far as Villanueva goes he has nothing to apologize for his coach and teammates made themselves look bad.
Players should not be allowed to disrespect the flag. They are also disrespecting the viewers. If a team chooses as a whole to disrespect the flag they should forfiet the game.
I haven’t watched any games since 1998. When I went to school we sung the pledge of allegiance. I believe they should not be getting paid to do. They should do it because it is their country. If they don’t want to be here then leave and all the money that they have earned stays here. A free country has requirements you have to follow that was given to this country by God, you need to follow those rules. It is not about the money you make but how you treat God and with or not you love your fellow man.
I stand with President Trump, yes they should should stand, one hand over their heart the other holding their helmet. Now for the Youth Football Coaches teaching those young 7 and 8 year olds to bend an knee is disgraceful and shame on them…
Freedom of speech means having to put up with speech that may just offend us. It’s what separates us from the tyrannical governments of the world.
I support the players who stand and respect our flag and country. Those who have chosen to take a knee should get out of the NFL or put their money where their mouth is and doing something other than protest what has given them the life styles we all would like to have. The player should not have apologized for standing up for his beliefs. I think he was pressured into doing it.
The protest should not involve the American flag. Many have fought and died for the nation that the protesters disrespect. V I l l a n e u v a should not have second guessed his decision to stand at attention with his hand over his heart as that is the correct way to honor the flag. The coaches and players who disrespect the flag should take their grievances through the proper channels.
I KNOW Lt. Villanueva did the RIGHT thing and stood for what he BELIEVES in!!!!! The National Anthem, the FLAG, HONORING our COUNTRY and OUR VETERANS, past, present, and future!!!!!!! I, as a VETERAN, am VERY DISAPAPPOINTED in our athleletes who SHOULD be protesting on their OWN time NOT on “NFL” time and certainly, NOT in UNIFORM!!!!!!!! Lt. Villanueva, you are right, this country does provide its people PLENTY of OPPURTUNITY, I’m thankful for my military time, NOT for the pay, though HAHA!!!!! I did take advantage of the education and that’s where I succeeded. YOU did NOTHING WRONG, shong your PATRIOTISM, I SALUTE you for that, THANK YOU, SIR!!!!!!!!!! I served in all 4 services, with HONOR and am PROUD of my service, you be proud of what you did, for the National Anthem and for YOUR COUNTRY!!!!!!!!
In response to your question of allow to kneel.
I believe it is a feeling of pride, to live in and just be fortunate to be an American. Yes, it is the land of the free, but this in my opinion is each persons responsibility to protect and cherish this gift. If players, etc. want to protest for any reason, then it should not be shown at their place of employment. Especially for children to see. Persons from other countries see this, and I do not like to show my dirty underwear to the rest of the world.
We are so very lucky to live here and should be so thankful for all those many American’s who have died to keep the rest of us free. Thank God for America.
I was happy to see one player stand up for our National Flag and Anthem! I was not surprised that it was former Army Ranger Villanueva. I understand why he apologized to his coach and team but do not think he needed to. He did what was on his heart.
I think that all athlete’s should find another way to express their protest. Do commercials, do fund raisers to create awareness, etc. but Do Not disrespect our flag and our country!
They should STAND up with hand over heart, if not quit playing and get a gun and go overseas and defend our country and let somebody over there come home. I bet they would stand!!!
According to NFL rules, players are required to stand for the anthem. This is on owners and the commish for not enforcing the rules and fine them.
I was proud of the lone Steeler that stood for our National Anthem, disappointed when the lone Steeler later apologized. It appeared he was the only true man on that team.
What kind of an ignorant fool would ask a man to SPIT on the grave’s of his comrades and then force him to apologize for his actions when he refuses to do so. The coaches, the management and the owners should be run out of town on a rail.
I think every player who wants to protest should be drafted and send to Iraq and earn what the soldiers earn who are defending our country
I think that every payer should stand. If they refuse then fine them 1 million dollars and fire them with no possible reentry back into the NFL. Then fine the team owners 25 million per player that is fired. I don’t mind them protesting but the workplace is not the place to do it. Anybody else would be fired on the spot. This should include every sport. If it is a college or high school team the coach should be fined and fired with no possible reentry into any coaching position.
I pay to watch athletes, actors, singers to perform their talents. I do not wish to know their political stands. Do your protesting pn your own time. I stand strongly for our flag and the men and women who have given so much in defense of it. I will no longer be wayching or supporting ANY team that participates in this disrepectful act.
I served 21 years in the USA Army I served in both the Army Rangers and in Tank Units. I put my life on the line because I love America. if these Jerks who want to Kneel and disrespect the National Flag then we will allow them to go find a country where they can do as they wish. but not in this Country
I pay for football. Not protests!
We all stand for what the flag stands for: Freedom! And the freedom to protest whatever you want. We stand for the people who sacrificed their lives for this freedom. The athletes are on the company (NFL) dime, if they want to protest let them do it on their time and dime.
They All need to stand period.
I find it appalling how dare these players not stand. I’m with trump
Here is the link to sign the petition to boycott the NFL for allowing Kneeling during our NATIONAL ANTHEM! Please sign it need 1,000,000 signatures
THANKS
President Trump is 100% right. These rich spoiled athlete’s are a disgrace to our kids.
36 U.S. Code § 301 – National anthem
(a)Designation.— The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem.
(b)Conduct During Playing.—During a rendition of the national anthem—
(1) when the flag is displayed—
(A) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note;
(B) members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and
(C) all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and
(2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.
(Pub. L. 105–225, Aug. 12, 1998, 112 Stat. 1263; Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title V, § 595, Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4475.)
Why would you support the nfl anyway!They don’t pay taxes,pro nwo ,antigun pro war etc.
All ANTIAMERICAN!
I think they are being paid to play and should stand for the flag or be fired
If all this owners feel as stated, how come kapernick is not on a team?
Yes absolutely they should stand. It infuriates me that they don’t.
NFL SHOULD BE BANNED! It is disgraceful how these grown men are acting against their country. Let them go to another country ship them out like the immigrants that are here illegally. Easy as that.
It is disgraceful and ungrateful to disrespect all that our flag and our anthem represent. I find it disgusting that they act in such a way, and almost worse that Americans pay to watch such disrespect. I don’t and I won’t. That said, many thousands of our fathers have sacrificed their own lives to provide the very freedoms that allow them to display such disrespect with no consequences. For that reason, I cannot with a clear conscience support the NFL. Neither can I support President Trump in this area alone. As the Leader of a free nation, he has a duty to lead that nation and continue to provide the freedom that our Constitution and Bill of Rights promise to every citizen. Communist countries force their citizens to ‘believe’ the way the government wants them to. Dictators require that the people support their leader unconditionally. As a free nation, we have the right to take a knee or speak out, no matter how disrespectful it may be. The 2 main reasons that it has turned into this is because first, people are not educated and don’t really know what inequality means. The second and probably the main reason is because it has been so publicized by the media. If the first time it happened, ticket sales dropped, the teams might not be so eager to jump on board. Remember that. We as people can display our own opinion. We don’t have to support such disrespect. I would encourage everyone to do just that. I won’t go to a game. I won’t watch it in TV. I don’t like to see people disrespect my flag. On the other hand, don’t forget that it is their right to do so. That is more important than anything else, because when they take their right to peaceably protest, they can begin taking my rights as well. I would rather see someone else make a fool of themselves than loose my rights in taking theirs away. One more time, so I don’t get attacked for my opinion, I think what they do is disgraceful and disrespectful to those who have provided them with their freedom.
I believe that sports at any level should not be used as a political forum. Especially at the professional level!
If you want to make a powerful statement and show that you care about racial equality or any other issue, spend a day working on an assembly line or in a Steel Mill. Find out about REAL men and women working side by side and accepting one another for who they are and not for their race or how many touchdowns they make…..
These guys have no clue how blessed they are!
If they want to do something positive, let them donate their salary for a game to a local childrens hospital or shelter instead of acting like a bunch of spoiled prima donnas.
It makes me sick to see these (men) disrespect our flag and our country as well as those who lost their lives so these whiners could celebrate free speech!
Relative to “Taking a Knee” during the National Anthem.
I am a Disabled Vietnam Veteran. As a result of my service to my country, I lost my right foot and wear a prosthesis. I entered the service knowing full well what the possibilities of the outcome might be. I still went voluntarily. I have the highest admiration and respect for what our freedom means. Sadly I have to witness what spoiled, disrespectful people who claim to be Americans have lowered themselves to do. What does “taking a knee” have to do with Freedom of Speech, which I fought to defend? If they want to speak out about their grievance, then please speak out. They have that right. Where does disrespecting what I fought to defend appear in our constitution? Did I miss something?
If these people are so unhappy being way over paid for their “occupation”, and suffering to be an American, then please tell them to leave and go somewhere else. I’m sure America would be a better place without them.
I, for one am sick of these cry babies that take our country and the sacrifices made for it, for granted. Maybe we ought to put a gun in their hands and make them defend our freedoms. Bet their understanding changes then..
And here I thought we had a real hero in this man- WRONG! It turns out he is no better than his teammates. Obviously he allowed them to coerse him into the ignorant opinions of the team and the coaches! WHAT A WEENIE!!!!
I don’t care what They ( the NFL players) do. They’re idiotic actions have made it very easy for me to make a protest of my own. No NFL. They can all go to hell in a hand basket. Curry and the NBA are next. You too Bron you should just stick to b-ball. Where was your moral outrage for the last eight years under the Obama administration. Or doesn’t all the lying that went on then count cuz he’s a brother. What a bunch of ignorant hipocrites.
I believe there are two separate issues that are being mistakenly lumped together out of ignorance. I believe some have not reflected on the issues… and subsequently come to an individual decision as to what “their Truth” is regarding the issues in question.
I believe the Flag and our National Anthem represent our united effort to set aside our differences and recognize the freedoms and rights which our peoples fought and died for throughout our nation’s history…and continue to do so. Mistakes have been made along the way and we continue to make mistakes to this date. I recognize the rights of all citizens to voice their concerns regarding issues which plague our Country.
I believe Alejandro Villanueva expressed his individual truth when he chose to pay respect to the symbols of our Nation. Symbols which are meant to reflect the unity of our Nation…where we have the right to stand up for the individual beliefs we hold to be true. These symbols should not be seen to represent the wrongs/injustices of our nation…they should be seen as symbols of our willingness to come together to resolve the wrongs/injustices within our Nation. To disrespect these symbols is a stand against the coming together to seek resolutions to the wrongs/problems which plague our Nation.
I believe the recanting by Alejandro Villanueva of his previous stand is a direct result of pressures from a group of individuals. Pressures which deny the very right they seem to be standing for. An individual’s right/truth is not accomplished by a vote. Showing respect for the symbols of our Nation does not mean I support the injustices and wrongs of our Nation…it only expresses a willingness to work with my fellow citizens to resolve the same.
I do not believe the Constitution, any other document, government, or person has given me the individual right to express my truth. I believe our creator gave us all the right to choose from the beginning. What right does any person/group to pressure/challenge an individual’s choice? I say…”NO ONE” who believes in the very freedoms which our Flag and National Anthem are meant to represent. There is TEAM AMERICA and then there are other teams, groups, etc. I should be able to play on both teams without ridicule. I vote for the 1st Alejandro Villanueva.
I’m not watching anymore, To hell with them.
WWII Veteran
They should Not kneel They have not earned that right
No matter what , as an Army veteran…I’d like to see players STANDING WITH THERE HANDS OVER THEIR HEARTS!!
This country has done more for blacks and their rights than any country on earth. I feel it in every paycheck when I contribute with the taxes I pay. In today’s world if you are black and can’t make it don’t blame me or any other race, look in a mirror and that’s the person to blame. The NFL is a bastion of liberal socialism and most players are one step above that of a thug. I don’t care what the players think nor do I care. Glorified crybabies when someone called them what they really are.
Every player that does not stand up for the national anthem need to be charged $1 million fine do not pay the fine they need to be fired they are getting paid millions of dollars a year to catch a fucking football will I ever watch football again hell no! If they don’t like our country they need to get the hell out of it
well first off i need to know for shure that blacks or any man that neels for the national anthemic is protesting for blacks being shot by po;ice offers or they are protesting the USA, secondly i thing that if you work for a corporation and you do something offencecive that you would be repremanded and i think that owners don’t want to take responsibllity for the athelets, so they side with them to take the heat off the owners, shame on you and i think that all fans should boycot the games, i know that i am and let me be the first to say so new englang x patriots i am ashmed to call you my team, say good bye to me, and i know you don’t care
VILLANUEVA IS A SHEEP LIKE ALL THE REST OF THE LIBERALS! .ITS DISRESPECTFUL TO ALL THE PEOPLE WHO DIED FOR THIS COUNTRY!IF IT WASNT FOR THE VETERANS THOSE IDIOTS WOULDNT OF HAD A CONSTITUTION TO HAVE ANY RIGHTS FIND A BETTER WAY TO PROTEST FOR YOUR MADE UP STRUGGLE I DONT GET FREE FOOD HOUSING AND COLLEGE FOR MY SON BECAUSE HE ISNT A MINORITY OR IMMIGRANT .WHEN IS THE REVOLUTION ?BECAUSE I M GOING ON THE OTHERSIDE!!!!!!!!
Players should NOT PROTEST by dishonoring Our Flag and Our Country by Not Standing during the Playing of Our National Anthem ❗️I am a Veteran and Proud to Stand ❗️
Without a doubt , all professional players should stand for and respect our national Anthem and our flag.
To do otherwise is to disrespect the flag and the country . And the team owners should enforce this.
If they are ashamed of our country, fire them all. If they don’t like our flag or our national anthem, we can help them pack!
All Player who DISRESPECT EACH and EVERY Person who DIED for our GREAT AMERICAN FLAG AND WAY OF LIFE SHOULD BE FIRED.IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT THIS GREAT NATION AND WHAT WE STAND FOR “GET OUT”!!!!!!!
I hope the scum burn in hell they are disgusting scum I will not watch the trash and it is time for Trump to stop giving these owners tax money they should be treated as traitors to the country so as I said I hope they burn in hell total garbage
WONT…..GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
I was one of those who served two combat tours, got spit on when I came home from Viet Nam and There is no way I will ever watch another NFL game as long as one of those disrespectful idiots continues to kneel. I say send them to Afghanistan
It appears to me that if the coach demands all the players participate in the protest, what about the individual player who has a different point of view. i always considered individualism as one of the core principles of America but I guess coaches would prefer a team of sheep.
With a sport that is >80% Black and collectively rack in 100’s of millions of dollars, this is NOT the venue to protest what they wrongly consider racial equality injustices. Far from the truth if anyone actually wanted truth. Why aren’t the black ‘snowflakes’ out actually doing something rather than disgracing the USA which gave them it all.
If they don’t respect our country’s flag and all it stands for, then get out of our country.
If the US is so racist how is it the vast majority of mega buck $$$$$$$&& players are not “White supremacist ” — their non white -race didn’t seem to keep them from a successful career that exceeds the vast majority of the so called privalleged oppressive whites — if they are really concerned why aren’t they volunteering in underprivileged neighborhoods(of course since they are against racism I would assume that means poor white area as well ) or giving some of their huge incomes to help others- instead of posing for cameras– – they are not helping improve anything just showing insult & disrespect to their country and those who fought & died for it making their privelidged live possible
Boycott the NFL. If the players do not want to stand for the national anthem them get the hell out of the USA. Very disrespectful and not the appropriate place to protest. They are a bunch of overpaid whiners that do something for 5 – 10 seconds and then stand around for a while. Boring…Very few have served in the military. NFL is a non profit tax exempt money pit – Not worth watching.
Disrespecting the flag is disrespecting the country, not the President. President Trump could have handled it better, but regardless, they were protesting prior to Trumps statement. Feel free to leave the country if you don’t like it here.
I think the players who knelt are a disgrace ant the NFL who supported their sickening anti American protest should be tarred and feathered and I am boycotting them.
America is the land of the free. Many have fought for this country and have died for the right of freedom. It amazes me how the NFL fails to recognize their decreased revenue is the result of the contempt their coaches and players are exhibiting to the people of the USA. It is their job to play football. It is not their job to protest their PERSONAL beliefs to the masses. If I did this, my employer would fire me outright. Count your blessings NFL. You are making exorbitant profits and salaries. Many of us “common” folk, whom you dishonor by your actions, are quietly revolting by turning off the television when you play.
This is America. Support your country or take nothing from her.
My husband gave his life years ago for this country and what it stands for. He loved this country and everything it had given him. He was serving with Special Forces at that time and believed it was his duty and honor to serve. No one has the right to dishonor his country or the american flag .
Your rules say that they are to be standing, so why aren’t the rules being inforced??
I do not have a problem with people protesting, but there is a time and a place to do it,. And during our anthum is not the time and a foot ball game is supose to be fun. Not a place of protesting. I haven;t seen any of the players in marches when they are off. Why not do it then. They just look like spoiled brats who are not happy unless they are disrupting. It is a sad day when they can’t respect our flag and country. Maybe they need to move to another country and see how it is there.
The players should STAND for the flag and the National Anthem and KNEEL at the Cross
If they want to make a statement that is fine but on the field they are not on their on their own time. They are on the fans time and that is where they are receiving a very good pay check – unlike the armed forces that are protecting our country. That are coming home with PTSD and committing suicide because of the trauma they went through.
I know this country is not perfect but disrespect is not the way to help correct it.
There are ethnicIST(Racial) Inequalities in Our Country BUT Theres a TIME And PLACE For EVERYTHING !!! But These (Racial Yapping And Whining Hyenas)Want Equality At ANY COST EVEN By Destroying Our BLEESED Country WITH Their HATE, RAGE And DESTRUCTION !!! THEY Feel Their Justified And The REST Are WRONG NEXT To THEM
The United States of America gives you the right to protest. The American Flag Represents and is a Symbol of the United States, as also with the National Anthem. When you disrespect the United States Of America’s Flag and Don’t acknowledge the United States National Anthem, “The Star Spangle Banner”, You are disrespecting your right to protest. It goes hand in hand. There are many other ways to protest. I can go on but need to keep this short. Being a Veteran, every time I hear the Star Spangle Banner I think of my fallen comrades who have died for this country. Please stop disrespecting America!!
I believe President Trump should encourage all management and players to drop down on both knees in a prayer of thanksgiving to God for the privilege of living in the USA.
Maybe Trump ought to read and UNDERSTAND the First Amendment. You can’t pick and choose what rights you defend and what rights you don’t like.
Over-paid jocks. They should put their money where their mouths are. I’ve finally turned of the switch for good. I don’t need to watch those idiots crap on this country that has taken such good care of them.
Villanueva did the RIGHT thing when he came out of the locker room, on his own, to stand for the playing of the National Anthem. His gut instinct to do that was RIGHT. For apologizing the next day for his actions was WRONG. I have a feeling he didn’t really want to apologize, but was made to feel that he HAD to apologize. His teammates and coach should have honored his decision for doing what was RIGHT.
Players should stand for the National Anthem. It shows respect and love for our country. There are many ways to express their feelings of inequality, but disrespecting our country that way is not one of them.
All people should show respect for the flag and anthem of the USA especially athleticks since they are constantly on public view
I am so angry right now. I’m not prejudice and never have been, but right now I’m tired of our president and others like me being called racists and prejudice. For years now I hear racial unfairness yet see none and have no one, even black people, that can name any. These pathetic individuals know squat. My family suffered under Hitler & if you disagreed you were dead or in a concentration camp. We also were not part of slavery. So you guys have nothing on me in your punitive complaints. And to all the left wing haters of our society I say you are the type of people who bring about the Hitlers of the world and even voted one in as president. If not for our political system and those who fought you tooth and nail he would have taken full power and the Jews would have been wiped out again. The man openly hated Israel and why not being Islam their bible clearly states to kill all Christians and Jews. And if you in the media would read the book you will see it clearly stated. This entire thing is left wing politics, policy and aggression.
Shame on them. I will not watch the NFL any more.
I think Villanueva feels exactly as I do…. He was trained to stand up for his brothers and country, be proud of his homeland and the ideals we founded the USA on and fight for the beliefs that we all have an inalienable right to have & do. He was only doing/being what was ingrained inside of him to be. Growing up in our schools, being in a proud American family, training in the armed forces, being part of a corps where your fellow brother in arms could be taken from you at any moment…… THESE are the reasons he stood there with his hand over his heart, for he could do nothing else. What makes me sick is that he had to betray himself by giving an apology I know he did not feel, just so he could keep the job that he loves and not lose the paycheck that he and his family had become accustomed to and relied on. He was forced into that apology! And for that I say, Shame on those who forced this brave man- who did three tours of duty to ensure their freedom- to bow down to this blatant form of intimidation. Alejandro…. Good for you for standing up for your beliefs and thank you so very much for your selfless service to all of our continued pursuits of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
All the NFL players have an opportunity to make a difference. They are going about it in a wrong way. If they are truly concerned about injustice, let them reach out to the community, to kids who look up to them and teach them to have respect for everyone. Teach them about integrity, honesty, and courage to say no to drugs, gangs,etc. This is for all young people no matter what color they are. Your stance today says to me that you are against all cops, all Blacks are mistreated and hated. This is a lie from the pit of hell and all you guys who profess to be Christians know that. You can not demand respect for one thing while disrespecting something else and our Flag should never be disrespected in any way. You want to do some good, all of you take a week off and go help the flood victims. Donated to them, get down and dirty with them, cry and pray with them. That is what America is about. People working together! Take a step back and see what is really happening to the USA The underlying current is trying to separate all of us, Only when we unite can we be strong. Divided, we fall!
While I agree with that one man who stood up for the national anthem, I believe that if you disagree with the owners/players then don’t watch it or go to the games, It should be your choice.
These people make a lot of money. They protest, but don’t put their money where their mouth is. I really support our KC Chiefs, but I will stop watching. We need unity behind our flag and country. All lives matter, not just black. I want to see these players actually help not just mouth off.
Green Bay is playing and guess who isn’t watching.
If I wanted to watch fake news I’d watch CN not the NFL.
I think it is disrespectful for any able bodied person to refuse to stand for our national anthem. These athletes are highly overpaid. They will get what they deserve if the fans stop supporting them and they lose their big pay checks.
You all need to stand else my husband and I can’t watch you play anymore and we were big fans!!!!
Just stay out of politics and do your job!
On your off time you can do as you please!
Kneeling is submission. Who are they submitting to?
It is disgraceful conduct from a bunch of spoiled millionaire children who think they can dishonor the country that has allowed them great success and to the millions of our armed forces who fought to preserve their rights to act as spoiled children!
What have we done that this GREAT man has to bow to NFL. That the NFL IS MORE IMPORTANT. THAT THIS GREAT NATION WE LOVE AND DIE FOR. BANKRUPT THE NFL.
I do not agree with the protests. Do any of them think about or even care how the military stationed all over the world feel about the disrespect for our national anthem and the flag these protesters display. Maybe if they served in the military they would have a different appreciation for the freedom we have in this country.
The Supreme Court says protesting through disrespectful treatment of the US flag is a protected form of speech. Demanding free speech for oneself, then belligerently denying that right to fellow citizens, is wrong The social or political status of the person behaving thus is immaterial. Such conduct is wrong. Its not about patriotism. That claim is a false flag deliberately designed to inflame passions. It comes down to a choice of do we allow an angry rabble to dictate who has civil rights or do we honor without prejudice the forefathers’ desire of inalienable rights for all Americans.
I don’t anyone should be required to stand for the national anthem. If the media hadn’t responded to the players, then I believe it would have fast become a moot point. BTW I find kneeling a sign of respect.
ur man is a discredit to the military service he was in. He can’t walk back his feelings/ actions and expect the general public to accept his explanation and go on with his flip flop life. Stand up and be counted Marine or shut your mouth and hide behind some lame ” social injustice”
I think Americans should ban the NFL I was pissed when it took place but the more I think about it this takes away there world wide coverage to do it. Screw kapernick he ducks anyway
All pro athletes should stand during the national anthem…..or take off their jerseys. These are sports events, not civil protests. Put their money where their mouth is if they really care about inequality. Personally be involved with those who need help. Be a help not a hindrancew.
I stand with the President on this issue. The NFL has become a political organization , actually a left wing political movement. I’ve lost interest and have no trouble not watching it on TV any more.
Players have every right to kneel, however the league or owner has every right to fire or heavily fine them, as they should. What would the owners do if they saluted the flag with one finger?.
What a crock these players are protesting the Flag because of injustice ? Wrong platform to do this also why aren’t they giving 1/2 of the $60 million they make to help out the ones that need it. instead of living in a 15 room mansion and having 6 cars. NO MORE NFL
I consider it very disrespectful, people have died to keep the freedoms that we enjoy in our country. We are privileged to live in the greatest country in the history of mankind, there are ways to protest but not at the expense of those who died. I for one will not patronize the NFL until they change their ways and apologize to those who served and died, and those of us who served and lived.
U.S. soldiers have sacrificed their lives so we can exorcise our 1st Amendment right for freedom of expression. The NFL players are doing just that.
There is no point to be made by those player/employees who choose to disrespect our National Anthem! It makes me very angry to see it from those who seem to benefit the most from what this country has to offer. I would just love to be as deprived as they claim to be!
If they want to kneel than they need to do it after the anthem.When the flag is out and the anthem sung/played I expectr them to be on their feet hand over heart not moving not talking epriod!
Canceled Direct TV NFL Ticket for this year next year and forever!!!!!!!!!!!! See Ya Wouldn’t Want to be Ya $$$$$$$$$$
No one should be able to disrespect our flag! They should be ashamed of themselves. The executives are letting it happen. They should all be fired. SHAME ON ALL OF THEM. There are other ways to show how you feel but this is not one of them. No other Country would stand for this lack of respect. If they are so disgusted with our country they should leave. They are just making things worse.
Villanueva has nothing to apologize for. He did the right think. His fellow players made themselves look bad. NFL players want to protest that’s fine just don’t do it in uniform.
I believe it is an insult to the American People when those players do that. Every black or white life or any other color, is important. When you break the law, you will have to pay the price. It appears that some people feel that they do not have to obey the police who are hired to up hold the law. That appears to be the cause of many of the problems that have occurred .
Majority of professional sports athletes & owners have no clue how their freedom is earned! I served in the military 29 yrs,deployed 16 months away from family & country ” OIF” 06-07,including 20 yrs of service as Firefighter. These individuals have that right because of my service,those who are serving & those who made the “ultimate sacrifice “. Mr Villanueva does not need to apologize to those so called team mates,owners & coaches (haters), he earned the right & respect that he deserves. “Once a soldier always a soldier”! I can say that I’m a proud Veteran & American, God bless us! Remember Pat Tillman…… a real former NFL hero.
No they should not kneel as its disrespectful to those who fought for the flag. So those of us who disagree with them should not support them or the products being advertized. They play for the people who are paying their salary, play by honoring the flag or go somewhere else, find another country you can support their flag. We have been too lenient with the disrespect of the flag, we need to enforce the consequences.
I’m out no more football,
I am a Vietnam veteran and I fought to preserve our freedoms here and that includes the right to peacefully protest.
Lack of respect, and lack of respect for authority in particular, is one of the biggest problems in our country. WE ALL KNOW OUR COUNTRY IS NOT PERFECT, BUT IT IS THE BEST IN THE WORLD. You don’t cure our imperfections by disrespecting our flag, our national anthem. and therefore our country. Disrepect fosters more disrespect.
As a combat vet who served my country many years ago I find the conduct of any professional or amateur athlete to disrespect our country and flag totally disgusting. I will do everything I can to contact the team owners, television networks and advertisers of my dislike of their support of this un-American behavior by spoiled so-called professional athletes who have exhibited their lack of moral character by protesting the National Anthem. I was proud of Villanueva for his stand during the playing of the National Anthem prior to the game (I turned the game off after the “protest”). However, I am dismayed that he bent to the will of the disrespectful and traitorous coach and teammates and apologized for being an American patriot. He is no longer an Army Ranger. He sold his soul for the paycheck. Very disappointed in him. I hope the majority of patriotic American will boycott the NFL and any other professional sports organization who also exhibit this un-American behavior.
Stand or go to Canada or someplace else besides the USA
This was posted by a friend on Facebook I thought it summed it up very well : I want to share my thoughts and feelings about the debate going on with professional athletes and their protest of the flag and the national anthem. I first want to say they have every right to protest in the way that seems best for them. As a former employer, I would be very upset with any employee who was purposefully running away “customers” by the hundreds maybe thousands. Nowhere in the Constitution does it mention the rights of an employee who are willing to destroy the business of the employer to remain on the pay roll. I have read one survey that says 70% of Americans agree with the President in disliking the way the protests are being conducted. I for one paying customer is done with the NFL and the NFL owners who refuse to subdue their employees from running away good paying customers. For the first time in my life I purposely rejected watching my beloved Broncos because of the players taking a knee during the National Anthem.
I believe it is a sad day in America when the “elites” say the disrespect they have shown is not about the flag , anthem or vetrerans but a protest against racism, etc. amazing the majority of athletes are not white (NFL, NBA) Just where are all these disadvantaged people of color? Does anyone of the “protesters” think their disrespect is going to change the mind of anyone that does not like them? Seriously? Their riots, violent disrespect for the rule of law, etc only serves to cause people to dislike them even more. You cannot legislate “like or dislike” of anyone. This is like trying to make your ex spouse “like” you. If I don’t like you, you cannot make me like you. These protesters have way too much time on their hands because the majority of them are freeloaders.
I can’t stand that pro athletes are doing this! How do they think this makes Vietnam Vets feel who came home after serving their Country to be spit on, trash thrown at them, and called such things as “baby killers”?? Fact is, when you ask these players why they are doing this protest, their answers are mostly not logical and do not have a real reason. They are overpaid and no one needs them! I for one have discontinued watching NFL games until they respect our flag again! I also plan to write the sponsors and refuse to purchase their products until this ends.
I have stopped watching the discus ting disrespect.I’m a proud vet who canceled the NFL direct along with many if my fellow vets
It is sad what the liberals are doing to our country. Players have the right to protest but… they have chose the wrong way, if they want to protest let them go on national liberal news!!! i myself am boycotting the media, NFL, The NBA and any other tv program or sport that uses the wrong forum for their liberal views and lies.
I think what he did was the right thing since he fought for his country, but very disappointed in him for apologizing the day after. If you don’t respect our country then get the hell out of here.
I think its disgusting that they react that way.
Either respect the Flag, the Anthem (and the President) or get out of this country! It was not founded to put up with their arrogant crap!
WE need discussion on the issues the players are trying to raise. There are many in the military who support the players and their rights, especially when the owners agree with the players’ choice to shine a light on this issue. Will they always do it right? Of course not. But many of them are making substantial contributions to their communities. The president on the other hand, is demonstrating the racism and lack of dignity that have characterized his term. I applaud some of his decisions, but find myself continually embarrassed when he plays to the worst elements of his base.
Tell the NFL to go flip burgers!!!
I believe everyone should stand and pay respect to our Flag and the National Anthem. I respected Villaneuva very much for his stand. I was very disappointed when he in essence changed his mind the next day. He did nothing wrong in honoring our flag. His Coach and Team Mates were the ones in the wrong. I will no longer support any team who does not insist that their players respect our Flag. I am considering not buying products from sponsors of those teams telecasts.
I agree that people have a right to voice their opinion of something they do not agree with but they need to do it on their own time.
They need to keep political crap out of sports and award ceremonies.
I think fans should leave the stadiums when this happens. I will turn all telecasts of games off when they allow this disrespect to continue.
I believe and love my country, I thank God that I have the privilege to be a citizen of the United States. Thankful for our freedoms that we have. Freedom doesn’t come free. Alot of soldiers, veterans and public servicemen have given everything because they believe on what we stand for. These protests are ridiculous with no respect for the national anthem. Our national anthem does not have anything to do with whatever is going on in the world. People themselves, are trying to turn their own issues into racism. This nation is supposed to be one nation, a blessed nation, under God with liberty and justice for all. May God have mercy on us.
I do not watch the NFL for any other reason than for entertainment – so go protest somewhere else and on your own time, not mine. Frankly, I think this entire ordeal is a disrespect to the fans and our nation. And if the owners really agreed with the protest, then why has no one signed Colin Kaepernick to at least a back-up role. There is your answer. the owners are talking out of both sides of their mouth and they look like fools. The NFL has fallen several notches in the last week as they continue to handle this issue as poorly as Equifax handled the breach after it was announced to the public. And this issue of kneeling to our flag is just as serious, maybe more so. If you can’t honor our flag and country, then get out.
What the NFL and players proves is the lack of respect for All vets who died in defense of our country and the flag. This country and it’s constitution protects their rights to protest but disrespect for our flag. That lack of respect turns my stomach. Locking arms, raising a fist, taking a knee during our national anthem is like raising your arm with a a flat palm and saying Sieg Heil. God Bless America and President Trump not afraid to say it. Maybe the NFL organization and player’s should get on both knees and ask for forgiveness.
Tell the NFL to go flip Bergers!!!
Appropriate behavior in the work place is to stand, place the hand on the heart and sing. The NFL workplace has an established methodology for honoring our country. Free speech is appropriate in the non-work environment. I tune-in to football to get away from the politics. I will not tune-in to the NFL, until they get back to their true purpose. If then. I have been to 2 baseball games since the 1995? baseball strike. Do you get my drift?????
It would be impossible to stop anyone from being disrespectful. Just boo them every chance you get.
It would be very helpful to teach people what it means to me an American. The great price that was paid. The Flag, and anthem have nothing to do with race. It is pride in your country. Those who disrespect have paid nothing for their freedom. They show their ingratitude . A country of spoiled brats.
t
What do I think of players either kneeling or locking arms during the anthem being played? I think everyone in America has the right to make a complete fool of themselves anytime, anyplace! Good Grief. Play Ball!!
they have a right to do a peaceful protest any way they want. this America. It may be disrespectful but not unlawful.
No NFL for me…..goodell could have put the brakes on this PC baloney last year, and didnt’.
Fine, as a redskins fan for 50+ years, and “ex” sunday ticket holder, i will not be watching this blatant disrespect to our country, our vets, or the many many who have sacrificed for the players right to protest. Even the BASIC and fundamental premise of a war on blacks by police is a fools errand fed by a race baiting media, along with race hustlers, reinforced by 8+ years of misdirection, deceit, lies and distortions by the Obama administration, which began with the line ‘the cambridge police acted stupidly’, and then only snowballed from there on. Anyone with eyes and ears saw, heard and witnessed the sneering disrespect toward law enforcement, by the DOJ and the administration. That’s why we are where we are today…..we can’t change the past actions or the causations of how we got here, but we should not endorse the NFL family for propagating further distortions on this issue. If i am the ONLY one who will not watch NFL again this year, i will be proud knowing i did the right thing.
Million dollar crybabies can do what they want. The American citizens can also do what they want. We can boycott professional sports altogether. Don’t go to the games and by all means do not watch on TV. I have not supported professional sports since 1986 when football players went on strike during the season and the owners brought in semi pro players to finish the season. They care nothing about the fans nor can they relate to the average American citizen.
One player said that President Trump should stick to politics, I say to that player….. exactly and why don’t you stick to sports and keep your political opinions to yourself.
All entertainers, and professional athletes now consider themselves entertainers, can move to a country that better suits them. But I’m sick and tired of them trying to change our country into a third world country. They, Hillary, Obama, Sanders and all the idiotic left wing liberals can kiss my AS_ !!!
I felt Villanueva was standing for his fellow comrades who might have fallen in the line of duty which was more important than the protest. I was proud of him for standing up to the bigs wigs . There is a time and place for everything and that is & was NOT the place. YES I feel our flag and National Anthem should be respected by all. So yes I’m disappointed with his rechanting his actions. God HELP us all in these times AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!
.. it sounds tomme like his apology was a pressure point from his team and might just have saved his job.. said to feel he might have been pressured into it…. “live free or die”, my states moto, cannot stand for freedom any more , or so it seems by today’s ” social ” standards.. pity.
His stance was admirable – his apology demonstrated “no guts”! If you don’t like this country – get out and leave room for some new person that will love our flag and our anthem. I will turn off my TV and not watch anymore NFL games! I served 5 years in the military.
I agree they have a right to peacefully protest, doesn’t mean what they’re doing is right. To make an honored Veteran apologize to the coach (egoist most likely), the team (how many of them did even 1 tour of duty in the mid-east?), and the Steelers Franchise (a company that’s benefited from his courage and participation) (the for being grateful to the country that gave him so much is disgusting and despicable. He has a right NOT to protest as much as they have the right to protest. So he fought to protect their freedom, and they took his away. What’s the point in their protest for equality if they take another’s equality away just because they don’t agree with him? They should be ashamed of themselves!
I won’t be rooting for the Steelers any longer, or any team that takes away the rights our Veterans fight so hard to preserve, and especially a team that takes rights from a Veteran. Go to hell NFL.
My family will no longer watch any game where players who are earning millions protest against the flag and Star Spangled Banner, while blacks, whites, Orientals, Hispanics, etc., are fighting and dying for this country’s way of life. There are surely other ways to protest against their believed grievances.
It sounds racist when people expect black players to be grateful for their success while this is never said about white players. The football field is a perfect place to protest the wanton and frivolous killing of unarmed black men by the police. These killings are far more disrespectful of the flag than taking a knee during the national anthem.
I’m ex military. I’ve seen every super bowl
I’ve had the NFL package forever. I was a season ticket holder. I’m beyond pissed!!
I’m done with the NFL and I’ve talked 10 other people into giving up the NFL . Go NASCAR!!!
Raise the flag, & sing the Star Spangled Banner! While we still can. Don’t let our country go down the drain. Let’s strive for our ideals.
First of all, in my opinion the protesters are confusing the two separate issues. The issue of police vs black’s does not belong on the same platform as the reverence of the national anthem. I hope the NFL puts into force the rule that somehow got excluded during the 2016/2017 season.
Protesting agains’t police brutality is a worthwhile protest. Protesting agains’t the president calling you an SOB is also the right thing to do. This is what all of this boils down to.
We have a right to free speech however to DISHONOR our country in doing so is WRONG WRONG WRONG…………….
I am against the kneeling, sitting, etc. Our flag deserves better.
I believe the game has 4 quarters of play, they can protest any time while the game is in play… oops that is against the rules isn’t it?
Disrespecting the country isn’t right nor logical.
Freedom of speech. I support it whether I watch football or not. Not a sport fan. Still American. Still don’t like a President that tries to declare war by tweeting. What a twit.
Yes, I think that they should respect our flag and country. This kind of protest does not belong here. They can follow their right to speak out but this is not the right forum to do so.
I have lost faith in these men, who forgot that this country, had real men fight and die to save the world, And now they don’t honor and respect these real heros, by dishonoring our soldiers and law enforcement people, And instead have let our country go down hill by the behavior of people who want something for nothing, and encourage despicable behavior that is destroying decency in a once great country. They will pay with the results in a collapse of a civilized world.
I think Villanueva didn’t need to apologize for being a patriot and standing for the anthem . It was what he believed and darn good decision. This crap has gotten out of hand. Politics should not be in the games. These guys can take their protest to a different arena. Actually its funny, because in older times kneeling was a sign of respect and honor. Do they even know this, lol.
I think that out of respect for this great nation that we are fortunate enough to call home that everybody should stand respectfully with their right hands upon their hearts.
The NFL and all other professional sports are the same as a business. A company has rules, they are not a democracy, therefore your your rights as a U.S. citizen in most cases do not apply.
These individuals make tons of money, make them use it to voice there concerns and protests. Don’t use the (Free) media at work to say what you want. We The People, who buy your team paraphernalia, pay outrageous prices for tickets to watch your games and support you as a team earn way less and have no way of expressing our views on national TV as you cowards do.
Grow up you inept, lazy, lackluster jerks. I for one will not tune in to another game, go to a game, or buy your team shit ever again.
I’m an American! I appreciate my country, for their sacrifices, for democracy, for my fore fathers and the freedoms I have.
God Bless America and To Hell With The NFL!
I have a basic dislike for athletes to begin with. They are highly over paid and should have their checks cut short every time they don’t perform as expected.
These idiots are too stupid to understand what out flag stands for. It has nothing to do with politics. You don’t like this country, get the F out.
Our great flag stands for all the great people that fought and died for this great country.
If you disrespect that flag, you disrespect person who has ever served and every American too.
Stand up, stand still, put your hand on your heart, and show some respect for our flag or our anthem.
You don’t like it around here, get the hell out.
They have the right to say or express their opinions. But, using the game time to do it is wrong in my opinion. If they REALLY new the facts about all this racist crap and who’s responsible for igniting it they wouldn’t be doing this bs. Spoiled rotten egotistical uninformed trendy brainwashed hard headed high paid people are not always the brightest stars. They should be ashamed of themselves for willfully disrespecting a symbol that gives them the freedom to even act that way. They’re really stupid. I say hit them where it hurts. Ego and $. Take them down.
As a Puerto Rican American, Would like to say if you don’t wanna be apart of the National anthem. Then pack up and leave America and see how it is in other countries. Also I was at the Bear’s and Steelers game and I was proud of Villanueva and disappointed at the Steelers. And I didn’t pay$600 for Tickets to see people abuse there position and voice there political views or anti American views.. The answer is No they should all be kicked out of the NFL. There’s a time and place for everything
Yes. The rights of the people are more important than forced observance of the empire’s rituals.
FIRE ALL OF THEM! I served in Vietnam and Persian Gulf war. Disrespect my country and you disrespect me. If the players feel underserved, go someplace else where you can earn the same amount of money and not feel so disrespected. Not only do we need to drain the swamps, but cleanout the welfare and freeloaders. America is going downhill fast because of PC.
Pro athletes should stand during the National Anthem!!! Villanueva stood last Sunday, that was great. His apology later made me mad. Remember God, Country, Family, and Others? He forgot, that is extremely sad.
Sincerely,
RMCS(ss), United States Navy, Retired
Fire the S.O.Bs
I am boycotting ALL NFL activities until the NFL gets control of its employees and stops the political protests prior to their games. I pay to be entertained. Football is entertainment. Period. I do not want to watch political protests before a movie, a concert, a television show or anything else that I pay to spend my time watching. I’ll go mow my yard.
NFL players who aren’t already volunteering in poorer communities should be willing to do so. They should also be willing to give of their additional resources to help those they say they are protesting on behalf of.
As a sports fan, I watch to see my favorite teams play and be the best they can be on the field. They are paid BIG $$$ to do this. If I want political commentary, Ill watch CNN, FOX or MSNBC etc.
The Sports Players rights to Personal Commentary ends when they set foot on that field. their job is to play sports. PERIOD. Save the ignorant displays for your own time. You can disrespect our flag as easy as the FANS can BURN their team merchandise and switch the channel to a more respectful sport. Then we’ll see your multi million $$$ salaries go away!
What a bunch of overpaid, pampered knuckleheads. Do not believe most know why they are protesting. So very disappointed in the Steeler tackle. Screw the NFL.
I believe the players should protest off the field. They are only playing what they love and with their tremendous salaries, due to the freedom they’ve been given by our armed forces who continue to protect our freedoms. There is a time and place for everything and protesting during the national anthem and the presentation of our flag is disrespectful! They are part of the problems in our country. they are doing nothing, by doing this, to be part of the solution!
This is free speech. They are protesting brutality against people of color, and that is indeed happening! The flag and the anthem are symbols of our freedoms. People fought wars to preserve our freedoms, one of which is free speech.
NFL owners should make it a condition of employment to be on the field suited up ready to play and stand for the national anthem. This country provided everything they have. They should be shouting the verses at the top of their lungs. They have benefited more than any average person ever will
Robert
Thank you for all the advice and raising these issues. I am incredibly torn in this one. I do feel a bit like Villanueva. I could never not stand myself. Nor could I ever participate in or condone any actual desecration of the flag. However, having listened to the many many members of the active military who assert that the very reason that they fight is so that people at home are safe and can express themselves so freely. As such, I have to say that these players should not be condemned. I have not heard any of them assert that they are trying to be disrespectful in any way. In fact, quiet kneeling or linking arms is a pretty innocuous proclamation. Thank you again for your efforts and insights.
We should boycott the game’s do not go to them and do not watch on tv when the owner’s start losing money thing’s will start to happen
Football is a national sport in the USA. NFL has rules that players honor the pledge and flag – so follow the rules. STAND UP and show respect for our country – be an adult. It’s because you live in the USA that you are blessed to be able to pay as a highly paid football player.
Really? I cannot believe we are at a point in our history when we are even having this discussion. Absolutely NOT! Disrespectful over paid, to play a game, adult children. Grow up.
As for Villanueva, stood tall, was threatened, somewhere within 24 hours lost his courage, and caved, coward.
As for me, I’m done with all sports and their overpaid disrespectful unAmerican whiners. They exist because of this country, my country, your country, America. Boycott them all. We’ll see how many still want to “play” when their paycheck dries up. That goes for the owners too.
Exposed for what they really stand for. Shameful.
I will enjoy Sundays even more now, with Mother Nature, peace, quiet, non violent, times are getting much, much better. Thank you for allowing me to comment.
I totally support him. It is sad that he had to bow to peer pressure and lower his standards for a bunch of bozos.
Last time I checked this is still a free country and we are allowed to do whatever we want to do as we are protected by the constitution. I do not believe anyone can be told what to do as that is against the law. They are protesting the killing of black men not against the flag or military as FOX new poisons the public on their so called news channel which has been banned in Canada and England for false reporting.
When I consider all the founding fathers and what this country stands for as the wife of US Army veteran’s wife, I have to conclude that this country still stands for freedom and our flag sends chills up my spine every time I see it wave. It stands for each & everyone of us who are Americans no matter what race, religion, or color we are!! No one can that away from us. Our freedom is hard fought for and I am proud of my country and it’s flag. God bless America!
I admire Villanulva and thank and bless him for the service he gave our country in Afghanistan. He should not feel any shame for what he did. The other NFL players who stood or knelt should be fired. They should move to another country where they would be happier.
Here’s the deal… ALL players and coaches ‘SHOULD’ stand , at the very least. Players ‘SHOULD’ put helmet under left arm, standing while OUR National Anthem is performed. This IS the NFL Rules for ALL Players. What is it about this, players don’t understand?..
ANY & ALL players have the off-season or 4 or 5 days a week, to air-out their grievances in a political forum of their choosing. When its game day…The public, the fans want to watch the game and be entertained and root for their favorite player(s) and or team. Thats what most of us pay for. We buy NFL merchandise, Stadium foods and beverages at admittedly high prices, but nonetheless, we’re there for the game.
What WE don’t want to see is some player(s) airing out his grievances and dissatifaction for whatever reason, prior to the game or during the game, nor using their fame or notoriety to gain attention to their particular grievance or beef.
When on the field, Play Ball !!.. and forget using the game for social or political purposes.
As the NFL owners, coaches can see… This incident isn’t playing well with the public and this will cost you one way or the other, if this continues. Trust me on that.
Yes they should stand. They are paid performers only. Politics should be removed from National Anthem time.
God Bless America and our flag. Throw the ungrateful bums out! My husband and I will not watch NFL football this season…
There are laws that specify how the flag is to be honored and respected. The NFL has rules which specify how the players are to conduct themselves during the playing of the National Anthem. How dare these spoiled rich “children” defy these. How disrespectful and disgusting!!
President Trump is right for the most part.
Respect for our Flag and the National Anthem is First.
The Racial issue is overblown by the media and the Left. It is mostly White People who support the Black Americans in sports and in real life.
Sports is not the place to demonstrate, especially the cause that the players are protesting about is not based on true FACTS.
Where is the Silent Majority…Now they should speak up. Forget about the Major Media to tell the truth, they are the cause of the unrest and the stirring up of Racial issues.
Sure they can kneel, when they are begging for their job that they just got fired from for disrespecting the United States and the individuals that risked and those that gave their lives for the freedom that we all enjoy.
I think its rude, impolite, distasteful and down right disgusting that players kneel during our nationall anthem.
A bunch of BS. These over paid spoiled brat babies need to get real and be fired. If I owned the team, you are my employee. You do not express your opinion using my business during being paid by my business to express your opinion. I have been fired for doing much less from posts on facebook. You are nothing more than spoiled little children having a temper tantrum.
Playing football is their JOB. If I went to work and was disrespectful and staged a protest of any kind at my office over an issue outside of my company’s business, I’d be replaced. I respect their right to disapprove and protest. And I appreciate the non-violent way in which they are protesting, however, let them protest on their own time. As fans, we don’t pay their exorbitant salaries to see them do anything other than play the game for which they were hired. If they don’t like this, take a hike. After all, football is just a game!
love it or leave it….or on your knee’s and that don’t sound right!
If they are ashamed of the nation’s anthem then they should donate there wealth to the cause that would gain my respect for now I will not bother to watch the sport
He should not have apologized for standing, if for no other reason than, in respect for his country.
As a former viet nam vet I will never watch a bunch of ungrateful slabs again, if they do not like it here let them go somewhere else mabe Cuba
This is not recording!!!
It’s really sad that these little bastards do not see how much damage they are doing it’s really sad that these privileged football players all of her life by doing it are they jealous of how much money they make over the rest of their people
I will not watch any sport where they refuse to stand for our country or flag!!!
My Father played for the Boston Red Sox back in the 40’s and never would he even think of being disrespectful to the Flag or to the the Fans. He worked so hard to achieve a position on a Team and believe me, he was proud to be an American. This is what it has come to. NO RESPECT FOR MUCH OF ANYTHING. i DO NOT KNOW WHY THESE PLAYERS ARE IN THE USA!!! OHHHHHHHHH YES I DO!””THE MONEY ”” YUPPER THE MONEY!!
I am a very upset and disappointed Fan of Sports and I will not forget this action, for a very long time. Mary
All Americans should always stand for our National Anthem in accordance with US Code, Title 36, Section 301. Especially so regarding and respecting the millions of Veterans and their families, who paid the supreme sacrifice defending our blood-bought freedoms and prosperity, which we ALL enjoy today. Villanueva made the RIGHT CHOICE TO STAND, and owes NO ONE any apology. I’m also a retired disabled Gulf War Veteran, who will ALWAYS STAND in honor and respect of our US Flag and our great nation! God bless America! 🇺🇸🗽
I do not CARE if villanueva has served three tours of duty or 300. HE is a coward and will bow down to pressure. He is EXACTLY the kind of person that I would never want to be captured and interrogated. he would fold like a cheap suit. Thank GOD i did not run out and get one of his jerseys. I would be burning it today. In “protest”.
I completely disagree with professional players in any sport not standing during the national anthem, however, as a free country, it is their right to protest in a peaceful manner. It is unfortunate that we as a country are so divided over current circumstances, but again, it is every citizen’s right to protest anything as long as it is done in a peaceful manner.
Whether you agree or disagree with the topic, everyone has the right to their own opinion and can speak out accordingly. I am ex military I and i felt it was my duty to defend these rights. I may not believe in all that is going on, but no one should be able to tell others including a President what they can or cant say or do if it violates their rights.
I believe Villanueva is the ultimate patriot. He did what his heat told him to by standing, hand on heart. And his comment about the men in uniform really struck a chord. I am also a veteran, and I can remember actually qualifying for food stamps while on active duty. (having two children). That’s how low the pay is for young families who want to serve. I have no regrets though. I love this country. But I don’t think these athletes who make a mint, should use time on the field to make any political statements. If you want to make a difference, change careers and get into politics.
Although I do not agree with the actions of the NFL players but there is such a thing as the Constitution that guarantees freedom of speech and the players kneeling was them utilizing the freedoms that our Constitution affords us….
You go Alejandro Villanueva. The ones who did not respect our flag should find themselves a new country. We are sick of them. Come on fans boycott the games turn off your TV.
I will not watch any NFL games as long this disrespectful activity goes on.
I think it is a privilege to live in the greatest nation on earth. Many lives have been given for our freedoms. If anyone wants the privilege to live here ,they should respect this nationand alll of the lives that were sacrificed to purchase these precious freedoms.
These kneeling jerks need to go Afghanistan for a couple of years and lose their outrageous salaries!
Anyone who disrespects both the American flag, and America’s national anthem, is a traitor to his country, and should be expelled. If they do not support the country, then the country should not support them!
Shannon Sharpe perfectly stated what I believe is going on in the NFL.
http://www.foxsports.com/watch/undisputed/video/1054207043815
I have watched my last NFL game. They can go play football somewhere else and see how much money they make and how well they are liked. They should all be fired!
Take a little trip to Valley Forge in January. If you don’t know where that is, just Google it from the sidelines. Hold a musket ball in your fingers and imagine it piercing your flesh and breaking a bone or two.. There won’t be a doctor or trainer to assist you until after the battle, so just wait your turn. Take your cleats and socks off to get a real experience. Then take a knee.
Then, take a knee at the beach in Normandy where man after American man stormed the beach, even as the one in front of him was shot to pieces…the very sea stained with American blood. The only blockers most had were the dead bodies in front of them, riddled with bullets from enemy fire.
Take a knee in the sweat soaked jungles of Vietnam, from Khe San to Saigon…Anywhere will do. Americans died in all those jungles. There was no playbook that told them what was next, but they knew what flag they represented. When they came home, they were protested as well…and spat upon for reasons only cowards know.
Take another knee in the blood drenched sands of Fallujah in 110 degree heat. Wear your Kevlar helmet and battle dress…Your number won’t be printed on it like football…unless your number is up! You’ll need to stay hydrated but there won’t be anyone to squirt Gatorade into your mouth.. You’re on your own.
There are a lot of places to take a knee. Americans have given their lives all over the world. When you use the banner under which they fought as a source for your displeasure, you dishonor the memories of those who bled for the very freedoms you have. That’s what the red stripes mean. It represents the blood of those who spilled a sea of it defending YOUR liberty.
While you’re on your knee, pray for those that came before you, not on a manicured lawn striped and printed with numbers to announce every inch of ground taken…but on nameless hills and bloodied beaches and sweltering forests and bitter cold mountains…every inch marked by an American life lost serving that flag you protest.
No cheerleaders, no announcers, no coaches, no fans….just American men and women…delivering the real fight against those who chose to harm us…blazing a path so you would have the right to “take a knee.”
You haven’t an inkling what it took to get you where you are…but your “protest” is duly noted. Not only is it disgraceful to a nation of real heroes, it serves the purpose of pointing to your ingratitude for those who chose to defend you under that banner that will still wave long after your jersey is retired…!
(Author Unknown)
American fans pay for the salaries for these football players, If we say you need to stand for the National Anthem, then you stand. If you don’t like it, go play in the Canadian football league. The player from Pittsburg should not be apologizing, he risked his life for us, He is right all other players who did not serve and are protesting are 100% wrong. This isn’t a freedom of rights issue, it is a respect for the United States issue.
I an my family feel there protest is not at the right place. Take it to the streets where the problems are take of to the police station, white house lawn . They protest for equality yet there beating there wife’s, being arrest for crimes of drug uses, dog fights, domestic violence. They Can show our country more respect where they make millions to play a darn GAME, I think the anthem an the flag need to be removed from the stadiums an then see them protest still if it’s for support of quality. There are more black on black crimes they need to unite first…
They are a disgrace and should all be booted off the
team. I for one will never watch any of the professional football teams or basketball teams again!
These players, coaches, owners who support the ‘take a knee’ action are ‘cheaply’ and conveniently taking advantage and hi-jacking a national forum to disgrace two revered hallmarks of our nation (our American Flag and our National Anthem)…to make their statement. There are other proper ways and means to protest their cause. Showing disrespect to our flag and anthem has nothing in common to their so-called claims of police brutality to blacks, white supremacy and whatever else bothers them. Their actions obviously are meant as a shock factor. That flag and anthem represent the very reason they have the freedom to play or otherwise be part of professional football and earn the high salaries. These people should be ashamed of themselves.
I think not putting your hand over your heart during the National Anthem is disrespectful to all those who fought, bleed and died for our wonderful country. I think sitting through the Anthem, taking a knee or refusing to come out is worse yet. Shame on the NFL for allowing this, and shame on the disrespectful players. It will no longer be watched at my house, unless they reverse course.
Football players should be allowed to kneel. The Constitution of the U.S. allows “freedom of speech and expression.” You can’t have it both ways….you either support the Constitution or your don’t..period!!!!
I think it is un-American not to stand and respect the flag. Think of all those soldiers who fought in the wars for our freedom. If these folks don’t like America get out.
For my Christmas card this 2017, I am sending copies of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. I fear that the very fiber of our country is under daily attack. And I feel that the attack originates from an uneducated and uninformed populace. So, however, small the gesture may be, I am doing my part to give some much needed information to family and friends.
Its a shame that Villanueva apologized for standing up. The players that didn’t show up or stand up for our flag and anthem were in the wrong.
Any NFL player who disrespect our Flag, needs to be fired, PERIOD. I am a disabled Vietnam vetrran. I saw many a man fall by me, who were fighting for US, THE USA. And now you want to sit or kneel or stay in the locker room…… You should be embaressed, full of shame and go to jail.
I am very sad that he was forced to apologize. I did want he felt was right. I hope that the fans stand up for their convictions and quick sending money to those who have no respect for our service man and women providing for the freedoms we enjoy.
Yes, I do. It is the right thing to do whether you agree with it or not. The flag is supposed to create unity and we pay WAY too much money to these disrespectful people!! They do NOT deserve our support!! When I do a job, I do what I am supposed to do or I lose my job! If I show disrespect, I get fired. They say they are protesting inequality – really? We all work our heads off to make ends meet and they spit in our faces while we give them millions of dollars for playing a game! They have equality or they wouldn’t be where they are today! I’m through with all of them. And I really believe this is a direct protest against President Trump. It’s a disgrace!
I’m a disabled veteran and support the right to protest but am appalled at the disdain shown to our Anthem and Flag! There are far better and appropriate ways to protest!
These protests are all based on a false narrative perpetrated by the previous administration that created the misperception there is widespread racism, inequality and division in this country and has divided he Ameican people to an unprecedented level. They, the owners and players, claim that sports are “the great unifier.” Well, these displays of disrespect for the symbols of our nation are having just the opposite effect. Get out of politics and play ball.
What the players are doing is spit in the face of all the brave men and women who served and are serving in the military that protects there right to do it. Don’t watch professional football anymore.
If you do not honor this country.I think you should find a country you can honor I will gladly help with the funds you need to leave.
So just so we’re all straight, the players have a “right” to disrespect their flag and country, but not a “right” to NOT show disrespect? What bullshit. This is an individual right, and should not be subject to a “team vote.” I’m done with the NFL. Disrespecting the flag and country is simply more divisive, and has accomplished nothing positive.
Artifact of the Day: This letter from Thomas Jefferson, drafter of the Declaration of Independence and third president of the United States, show his thoughts regarding religious liberty. He wrote: “No provision in our constitution ought to be dearer to man than that which protects the rights of conscience against the enterprises of the civil authority . . . I trust that the whole course of my life has proved me a sincere friend to religious, as well as civil liberty . . .”
Courtesy Museum of the Bible, National Christian Foundation. All rights reserved. © Museum of the Bible, 2017.
This civil liberty of peaceful protest is covered in the 1st amendment. That doesn’t just apply to that with which you agree. I stand. They can kneel in peaceful protest. It’s a right.
Football is a National Sport enjoyed by all, not just the left liberals. Everyone no matter what color should respect the flag and our country. This is NOT a race issue but the left has made it a race issue. It is a patriotic issue and soluting the song and the flag is respect for our country and those who protect our freedom. If some one wants to protest, do it in a way that does not destroy the respect and patriatism of this country. I am a Canadian but have lived here for 50 years and the US is my country and I do respect the flag and have always taught my children that you respect our country, our president, no matter if you believe in his policies or not, it is the leader of the free world and you respect the people who fight for our freedom.
The feeble brained so called president should keep his nose out of the NFL and sports. He’s just pissed because no one would sell him a team. And he’s trying to deflect attention from Puerto Rico and the special
Counsel Russia probe.
NO, not for the National Anthem. They can take a knee for all the rest of the game for all I care because I’m not watching a bunch of kids disrespect the US Flag due to some sort of schoolyard mentality. Good bye NFL in my house.
I agree that citizens are allowed to protest or express their views but during the playing of the National Anthem or against the flag of the Unites States is not appropriate. What do they want the country to do for certain groups now. In the words of a martyred American President ‘Ask not what your country can do for you”
If those over paid, black, disrespectful players want to show solidarity, let them give half their salary to poor black brethren who won’t work for an honest living. This country has provided them the opportunity to become wealthy and this is the way they show respect.
Race inequity is going to continue to be with us . I feel the players are making enough money to buy air time to effectively have productive ads on tv. I pay a cable bill each month to include football, both of a college and professional level. I won’t watch professional football again they stand for the national anthem. Those are my feelings. I think it gives a message to our young people that as long as it is peaceful they don’t have to show respect for The American flag that many military people have died for.
I It is the right of every American to have the right to voice their concerns. It’s a Constitutional right and that applies to NFL athletes and coaches. But in the same way we find way too many standing to claim their rights, but are found sitting on their patriotic duty and love of country. As a career military officer, I feel strongly about my country, but am ashamed of those that can’t find reason to stand up for their country.
I don’t watch football. However, if these big bulls are so concerned about racial inequality, they could mentor some of these young boys and try to teach them how to be real men. At the moment, all they’re doing is getting their pants grass stained.
They should have to stand for the flag, our country, and the Americans that died to fight for our freedom. I don’t think after all the money they make that asking them to stand and salute our great country for 5 minutes is too much to ask!
Not on company time!!!
They are being paid ga-zillions of dollars to play ball. So they can do whatever they want on their own time and leave the political gesturing for their off time! I hope they end up with empty stands and nobody watching on the Tele.
This is still America. I may not agree with their form of protest but I’ll be damned if I tell them that they can’t protest peacefully. They have cause to protest.
There should be no protests. Do these players feel guilty because they make so much money and the ones that were left behind still grind away in their pathetic lives? Enough! This is not protesting, they’re just pissing people off.
I think that Villanueva was bullied into that apology. The repeated wording is suspect.
Just like celebrities, keep your opinions to yourself and just entertain us. That’s what you get paid to do.
I had a school friend, Eva, who was a Jehovah’s Witness, a religion which doesn’t (or didn’t then) pledge allegiance to the flag. She nor her family ever stood at anytime the Pledge of Allegiance was recited at school functions (in the 1970’s), as was their right to freely exercise their religion. While I stood with hand over heart and she chose to stay seated, she was still my friend, and she didn’t hate America either, she was proud her family had the freedom to exercise their faith without being abused or jailed. Even in that decade, one or two people would give them a second look, but nobody hassled them. They were a family from Yugoslavia, a country whose history went from Democracy, to all out Communism, then half way back by settling for two bit Socialism. And it’s not even still a COUNTRY now. They entered the US first in California, couldn’t afford it, and moved to Mississippi where they chose Jehovah’s Witnesses as their religion because some neighbors of theirs were that. Believe me, they knew what freedom was and they exercised it! If you pledge allegiance to the flag and the freedom for which it stands, and then force a person to go against their religion (and that’s on ANY issue of the day that involves conscience or faith whether you agree with it or not) they aren’t a free people. Same applies to an individual’s peaceful protest of a thing. Practice what it means. This from Jefferson describes it very well. We would do ourselves a great justice by making friends with people who come from oppressed countries who can teach us a thing or two about what freedom actually is. Why are people on the political Left AND Right such one dimensional Stepford Wives about every single freaking thing that comes along in the news? I’m really sad.
I think it is very disrespectful to dis our country’s flag. It belongs to all Americans (not just black, white, yellow, brown, blue, green or red Americans). ALL LIVES MATTER, NOT JUST BLACK LIVES. I say if you don’t want to honor this country and all it’s people, then get out of here and go live somewhere else. See if you are afforded the same freedom that we allow to everyone in this country. Not likely.
They can protest all they want on their days off on some street corner holding up a sign explaining their made up oppression. Anyone from the black community can make a successful life for them selves. It’s just the choices they make.
Every able bodied person should stand for the anthem. I agree with my president.If you don’t want to honor the country that provides for you GET OUT. You are not only dishonoring our country you are dishonoring our soldiers who fought and died for us.
Hell yes they should stand. If they dont stand, they dont get to play. I dont care if its Tom F–king Brady. If it wasnt for that flag they wouldnt be playing that game and making all that money. If they cant show respect for the flag, our country and the men and wome who protect it and the ones who died so they could play that game then the hell with them sons a bitches.
They can either stand for the national anthem or I`ve watched my last NFL game. I haven`t watched yet this year and I will start boycotting the sponsors and buy their competitors instead !
Football games are not a place to protest. If they want to protest anything that is their right, but do it by normal means and not during a game or at work where I have to watch it. If they went on a march and I don’t support them, I don’t have to be there.
I feel the same as President Trump. Everybody seems to want to protest anything they can for just to be in the spotlight . When this started the one that knelled because of the police problem what the police should have done right there when they found out what it was about was tell them = NO PROBLEM AND WE ALL ARE LEAVING THE FIELD AND AREA and you are all on your own. These people need to go to any grave sights where the soldiers are buried and also view any video’s of how they died to give them freedom. Then if we get into a war they are the first ones called to be on the front line.
One person started the ban on religion and from there this country has gone down hill. WHEN YOU TAKE GOD OUT OF ANYTHING IT WILL FAIL . READ IN KINGS OF THE BIBLE HOW WHEN ONE THAT STARTED AND CONTINUED TO GO AWAY FROM GOD WAS OVERCOME BY OTHERS.
GOD BLESS YOU
Peaceful protest is an individual’s right, but NOT during the National Anthem! For this reason I am boycotting the NFL. Respect our Flag. Stand during the National Anthem with your right hand over your heart. No exceptions!
Those little spoiled millionaires out playing on the field ought to pay attention to their work and stop being idiots. They may find that their protests have affected their salaries too when people don’t buy tickets, etc. Just more snowflakes!
I agree with President Trump.
Stand Up and show respect for our flag, our nation, and all of the people who died and continue to serve defending our freedom.
I’m disgusted watching these players and coaches dishonor this country.
The best retort is NFL players wear costumes, only the military and police wear uniforms and don’t get paid $16,000,000 a year to play a game.
first amendment does NOT apply at work. Do it on your own time own place I personally will wach very little football this year
I hope that the fans show the teams and the NFL that ball games and political statements do not mix.
If it hits them in the their bank accounts they will see the light.
YES THEY Should stand during the National Anthem? What i THINK about Villanueva and his choice to stand last Sunday? Mr Villanueva I thank you for standing during the National Anthem & I Thank you for your service in the US Military! Me and many of my family have served in the US Military losing three members of our family in WWII. We are proud of our country and will always stand for the National Anthem!
PS: I hope all the other players have a change of heart and soon Stand and respect our National Anthem, Flag and Country!
This is simple. My wife and I will no longer support football. I am very upset that our taxes build their stadums. They show no rezpect to tbis country.
Players have LEGAL right to protest, but must be prepared for public opting out due to the insult to our anthem, flag and all who bled and died so that these insulters had the freedom to protest.
Of course, everyone in this great country has the right to peacefully protest whatever they want, but doing so during the presentation of the American Flag and the singing of the National Anthem is NOT the place to do it. I wouldn’t want anyone to think that we worship the flag or the anthem, but they both represent what is the best of our country and what makes us different from the rest of the world. The Flag and the anthem deserve RESPECT. If people have things to protest, they should get a permit and demonstrate somewhere else. These highly paid athletes and their coaches and owners should be respectful of the symbols of our great republic that allowed them to have their success. There’s no better place in the world to live than the USA. Don’t insult its symbols and all the proud Americans who shed their blood over the years to give us the freedom to protest what we don’t like.
I think all people of all races and religion owe the respect of standing at attention when our National Anthem is played. I feel strongly that if they can’t respect our country and the freedoms it has allowed them by being, at the very least, courteous, they should simply move to another country and see how they like it. Also, as it pertains to the president, the bottom line is…like him or not, he’s our leader and will be for another 3 years, and deserves our loyalty. Again, if you can’t be patriotic, get the hell out of our country. Villanueva was right and clearly has been threatened or castigated by his coach and teammates. I feel he should NOT HAVE APOLOGIZED. It’s his right to be patriotic, just as they think it’s their right to demonstrate.
YES THEY Should stand during the National Anthem? What i THINK about Villanueva and his choice to stand last Sunday? Mr Villanueva I thank you for standing during the National Anthem & I Thank you for your service in the US Military! Me and many of my family have served in the US Military losing three members of our family in WWII. We are proud of our country and will always stand for the National Anthem!
PS: I hope all the other players have a change of heart and soon Stand and respect our National Anthem, Flag and Country! (God Bless America)
I’ve been a diehard NFL fan for 40 years. I love football but I love my country more. I’ve boycotted football until the political bullshit stops.
YES, professional athletes should stand during the National Anthem. They have the right not to stand but I find what they’re doing so disrespectful to our veterans and what our flag symbolizes. I think they should find another venue to protest whatever it is that they’re so angry about. I don’t hear any of them talking about the black on black assaults/ murders in Chicago and the rest of the inner cities around the US.
I thought Villanueva did the right thing by standing last Sunday but after he caved and apologized, It changed my view of him. I thought he was a man of principle but I was wrong.
I literally have not tuned in to one game since all of this started and I will not buy another NFL product. I wouldn’t go to a game if someone gave me tickets.
Football was an escape from politics and all the crap going on in the PC world. Now they’re making it so political it makes me sick! Screw ESPN and the NFL. One good thing about it though, now I put my time and money to better use.
Alejandro Villanueva did not make the team or manager look bad when he did the right and respectful thing by standing for the National Anthem. The team and manager made themselves look bad. This is a personal decisdecision and not a team sport. You get paid way too much money to act like traitors. NFL, you are not being viewed in my home in any way, including news casts.
Where else but in the USA could these people have the opportunities they have and make the kind of money they make doing something they love? Sure iit is dangerous but nor=t a dangerous as military service and it pays a lot more and is not full time work. God bless America AND its flag an those who have died for OUR freedom to live our good lives!!!!
I’m a vet, my son is a vet, my wife is a vet, my dad was a vet, my Grandma was a vet. We stand for our flag and expect the spoiled brat snowflakes to dom the same or GTFO the country. Bill USN-CPO-RET
This protest is ridiculous. Let them protest during halftime show by disruptive behavior and see how everyone likes it. Villanueva was right to pledge and wrong to apologize. It’s the height of stupidity for coaches and owners to tolerate this protesting.
I agree with Trump! I don’t think it is appropriate for anyone to refuse to stand and show respect to our flag and National Anthem. There are other forums that can be used to protest any grieviences or injustices. “Kneeling like they did only divides our nation more. Shame on them.
I DID COMMENT.. YOU SAID I WAS TOO FAST. YOU MUST HAVE “‘SLOW READERS” OR YOU DO NOT WANT TO POST IT. THE GUYS ARE PAID IN AMERICAN $’S.. THE OWNER SHOULD BE A SHAME. NOT WATCHING ANYMORE ON THIS TEAM.. IS THIS TO FAST?? MAYBE YOU CAN GET SOMEONE TO READ IT ”SLOOOWER”
Yes, they should be allowed to kneel, I would not kneel and they should not tell me I had to. I served to protect all our rights.
Just my opinion. I do not care if you are Republican, Democrat, Independent or none of the above. But if you want to do political protests, do it on your own time! Not at your job that you are being paid to do. I watch sports as entertainment, if I wanted to watch politics I would watch the news. If you want to protest, that is your right, pick a protest, there is one about every day now, go to one and protest till your little heart is content. DO NOT BRING YOUR PROTEST TO YOUR JOB! What would happen to most normal people that went to work and protested at work while on their employers time? They would be fired, and rightly so! If you want to do politics, change jobs, run for office, vote, do whatever you want, but if you are being paid to do a job, then do your job and keep your political views out of it! Done with watching sports, except for NASCAR, they don’t put up with that sh*t, and they told them so!
They should stand. America gave them the opportunity to make all that cash for playing a game. It disgusts me along with taxpayer money going to subsidized them, so I am boycotting the NFL until they show respect for our Flag. We had a Black President and AG. Why all the protests now?
I for one, and I have many that agree, am tired of this disrespect. Many of these high paid “Athletes” feel that they have a venue to exhibit their political agenda. Well, that is NOT what I tune in to a football game for! I do not care how they feel about politics or any other social issue. I care about how they play the game and the effort they put forth. I do not want to be lectured about racism or oppression, I tune in or go to a game to get a break from that. I used to look forward to the weekend, relax and watch my team, but no longer. If this is what the NFL, NBA, etc wants to become they can do it without my participation and therefore my money…… This is ultimately what is will be about and I feel we all need to send this message. If we don’t watch, if we don’t buy apparel or other Team related items they will suffer for turning our outlet into another political rant.
Villanueva was right to do what he did and I feel it was wrong for him to be vilified and pressured to apologize.
He should not have apologized. The team and coach should look bad. Disrespecting the country has nothing to do with police brutality or inequality. The feds can send in the military but have no say on local police units. Making millions and yet showing such disrespect for the country you made it in is really sad, arrogant, and pathetic.
I think they are disgusting. This country gives them
millions of dollars to play a game and they treat us
and our flag like that.
But be assured that the capitalistic system will
find its way to their locker rooms and soon they
will be out in the streets looking for something
to do. Hopefully soon.
Personally I will never again do business with any
advertiser that supports them..
Thanks PT.
If it was my team, it would be my policy that if you did not stand, YOU DID NOT PLAY. When they wear the uniform of my team, they represent me and to disrespect the anthem and the flag does NOT represent my feelings.
It is disrespectful and unpatriotic. Unfortunately, professional sports players are role models and their example is terrible. If they want to protest do it at a different time. Why aren’t they being fined – that is what is i the NFL rules – stand during the National Anthem & look at the flag. When Tim Tebo knelt down he was shunned and ridiculed. They are protesting inequality but they are the rich ones. Why don’t they donate their money or help out at charity events instead ??
I will not watch another NFL game as long as any player kneels. It is not the place.
I am done with the NFL. This disrespect has caused them to lose me as a fan and customer. USA Strong!
Alejandro Villanueva had nothing to apologize for, it should be Mike Tomlin who should be doing the apologizing to him. What I want to know, with all of this kneeling and protesting what has changed with what they are protesting about? I do not believe it has had any effect on anything other than alienating the fans who want to watch the game not something that has to do with politics. There is a better time and other forums for that.
Everyone can protest whatever they like but not when being paid to perform a job and not on soil that is paid for by tax dollars, they have not right to wear a uniform representing a city and a franchise a nd make a statement that does not agree with the team and city that they represent. In addition the NFL rules state they are to remain standing at attention during the presenting of the colors and to be on the field not in the locker room. Thus they are violating the company rules. Ask yourself this would you be allowed to make a public display of protest when being paid by your employer and represenitng him or her on company time?? i dont think so you would be fired.
If these millionaires want to demonstrate their beliefs by kneeling during the National Anthem, then I say To Hell with these unpatriotic bunch of ungrateful Clowns. As a DAV, I am insulted with their actions. They ought to be ashamed of themselves. I”ll bet just a handful of these Clowns have even spent 2 minutes in our military. So many Heroes have paid the ultimate price for freedom, and so many serving in that God awful desert right now, watch the antics of these Sissies! How are these Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen, supposed to feel as they fight for their right of these players to live in this great country ? If they want to kneel at these solemn ceremonies, then I suggest they take a knee inside the locker room or take a knee out of the stadium until the Anthem has ended! I will never support the NFL,NBA or anyone else that disrespects this nation. I am insulted by these childish antics from these actions, and I have no respect for any player that participates in our nation’s values. They can all go to Hell. In no way, shape or form will I ever support any organism that condones such grievous displays.
Needless to say that I am hurt and very pissed off at their ungratefulness for the opportunity, Well Being, great Wealth and FREEDOM that our great country, (The United States of America) has allowed them. AMEN
I spent 20 years in the military and I no longer watch the nfl. It’s a shame that these guys who make so much money and then disrespect our flag and the country that allowed them to make it. I agree with all there causes but using our flag is not the time or place. I have loved football since I went to my first game in Green Bay at age 12. It’s a shame that I can no longer look up to what I thought was good examples for our young.
I am a lifelong Pittsburgh Steeler fan, watched them receive all 6 Super Bowls…..let me put it this way, my neighbors are having bonfires burning their Steeler Jerseys, Terrible Towels, posters etc. Our Veteran was forced to apologize by the Rooney family (owner) and coach Tomlin after wall to wall televising of people burning their Steeler Memorabilia!!! To not stand when the National Anthem is being played and to kneel is no different than burning the American flag…..if the millionaire players don’t like this country they can leave. Patriotism, love of country and our Veterans above the NFL, Steeler fan and all. I shut off the TV last week, and I am tired of Mr Rooney sending out an apology letter saying this is diverse times…People got madder…Then our QB Big Ben started…first, he said on second thought he should of went out when the anthem was played….then he said Villanueva shouldn;t have had to apologize when he asked him permission to go out….amazing…they are worried business may be falling…are they kidding…….they pissed out over half of the Steeler nation who are not buying…another 25% waiting and seeing.. I will not be watching this Sunday and I have rarely missed a game since the early 70’s……
I have no problem if they protest or make a scene on their own time and on their own stage. I do resent their hijacking of a venue that doesn’t belong to them. Fans aren’t paying and watching football to here their political opinions or see our country and veterans disrespected. They are being highly insensitive. There are other more effective ways to effect change. If they want to learn, study Dr. King.
They are un-American.
Football players are first and foremost citizens and enjoy the freedom of speech the way all citizens do. I applaud their kneeling as a display against racist policies, remarks, and actions within our society and government. All citizens must be courageous in today’s political climate. Cheers for their taking a knee.
The players should have to be educated on what are the customs of our nation, and the history behind showing loyalty to or flag and country. Let them do their thing (as the Dallas Cowboys did) and then STAND UP for our flag and national anthem
HE HAS EARNED THE RIGHT AND THE RESPONSIBILITY TO HONOR THE COUNTRY, FLAG, PATRIOTISM. THERE ARE OTHER, BETTER WAYS TO PROTEST WHATEVER IS BEING PROTESTED. THIS IS STILL A LAND OF FREE SPEECH, ISN’T IT?
VILLANUEVA IS A “HERO” THAT STILL IS ALIVE!!
GIVE HIM PRAISE AND CREDIT AND IF THE REST OF THE NFL CAN’T FIND A BETTER WAY TO PROTEST THAN TO DISRESPECT MY COUNTRY AND MY FLAG THEN I AGREE WITH MY PRESIDENT AND THEY SHOULD BE “EXPELLED!!!”
Those rich players can and will do what they want. I will not be watching any more NFL, ever.
If you can’t stand leave America. Fire the son of bitchs
The most effective response to the NFL “protest” would be for those of us who think it was disrespectful of them to act that way, would be to not show up for ANY of the games & refuse to even watch them on TV. In other words; We as patriotic Americans should GO ON STRIKE against the NFL! They need to be reminded of who it is that pays their salaries. IT IS TIME FOR “WE THE PEOPLE” TO MAKE THAT VERY CLEAR!
Regardless of whether one agrees or not with whomever is in the White House, we are still Americans and, while it is perfectly part of our democratic tradition to disagree with a policy or person, it is NOT appropriate to disrespect our country and our flag. Shame on them!
Yes, its a 1st amendment right. It’s why we fight and die for our freedom.
THEY ARE PAID WITH AMERICAN $.. THEY SHOULD BE PROUD TO STAND…SHAME ON THE OWNERS FOR ALLOWING IT.. THEY SHOULD BE “”OFF THE TEAM.. PERIOD…THEY JUST LOST MY VOTE ON WATCHING
I personally think that it is a show of of faith and love to our country. I know that there are problems in our country, but disrespecting our flag and country is far worse then trying to show your feelings towards others.
Let them kneel and then fire them!
They are paid performers and the price they are getting should please the paying audience. If the players don’t please us, we should burn the souvenirs of that team and quit watching them in person or on tv.
Live and let live. Leaders should not be bullies. It’s best if the teams don’t come out on the field for the anthem.
I am a United States Marine, and am very proud of ti. I lost many friends in Vietnam fighting for this country and that flag. My father was a B-17 pilot in WW2, and he lost many good friends fighting for this country. I do not like anyone disrespecting my country or her flag. If they don’t like it here they can always leave, and I’ll be glad to help them pack. I stand for the flag, and kneel for the cross, not viceversa. My uncle died a few years ago from agent orange, he was in Nam 6 times,, and I had a close friend die in January from agent orange, from being in Vietnam.That’s how strong I feel about this.
I signed the dotted line many years ago for uncle Sam & to defend this country. To this day, during the anthem, I still cry. To see these people disrespect my flag that so many have bled & died for just breaks my heart. I support free speech but I feel that they can find another venue to do their protesting. Maybe a venue that they can help those they claim to be protesting for. I will never watch another NFL game or any other sport that feels the need to take a knee.
He did not make his coach, teammates, or the owner look bad, they did that all on their own ! I stand with Al on his respect for the flag and anthem, but am disappointed for his reversal for the sake of the team. In an instance such as this, HE SHOULD REMAIN proud of his original convictions. I quit watching N F L games, because I can’t get past the disrespect of SOME players for our country. We are obviously not perfect, but try another country if you so “HATE” this one. We’ll help pack your bags
VERY SIMPLE! NO ONE SHOULD DISRESPECT OUR FLAG AND ANTHEM.
September 28, 2017
It show how divided this country is. These NFL players are our example to the kids all over the country. Some have given up on the system and bring guns to school and kill their fellow school mates. Now they see Highly marketed players of American Professional teams. Telling us their non allegiance to the flag in titles them to make a mocker of the standard theses teams once use to hold to a high standard. They tell us this defiance to the respect the flag doesn’t reflect their love for the country. It is like an abusive spouse who beats their spouse and still demand the love and respect of the other. You might as well pull the trigger of these young kids. Shame on you!!
Hi Robert, concerning the NFL kneeling controversy I have this to say. The position of kneeling are not people disrespecting the flag. We love our country but, we’re puzzled at some of the blatant injustices that’s been occurring under our great flag and what it is supposed to represent. Thank You
I am not an American, Green Card holder, but I do not condone how many high paid professionals, players or owners, dare to ignore the National Anthem and the Flag before a game.
I will no longer go to or watch football games on TV.
Every American who does not honor our Country’s Anthem and Flag, should no longer be allowed to represent it either as a player or owner. Americans and Resident Aliens show the power of us, the people, by “punishing” those people that disrespect our Country’s values and earn Millions doing so. They will learn that we value our history more than making them rich when we no longer pay their income by attending games. Empty stadiums will very quickly show who has the power.
I am done with NFL. HOW COULD HOU EVER SHAME A TRUE PATRIOT AND VETERAN?!!!!!!!!!!!! OMG!!!!!! I AM SOOOOOO DONE!
all should find another way, or leave THE USA.
Not on MY TIME..Not on MY DIME…BOYCOTT
I think it is so disrespectful to our Military. If the players don’t want to stand. Maybe they should pay a fine.
I do not like the way the NFL players are protesting. I wish they would find another avenue but I support their right to protest in a peaceful, nonviolent way. After our President made his comments last week I was not surprised that owner, coaches and players joined together to protest his statement.
Players should NOT be allowed to kneel…why should patriotic fans whose taxpayer dollars subsidize the NFL to an astonishing amount have to have players political opinion about anything shoved down their throat …do the NFL owners allow their players/employees to make all of their business decisions? Get politics out of sports and get taxpayers dollars out of NFL subsidies. Owners and players ought to step out of their bubble and group think and get a grip. My son cancelled his prepaid season sports package for a refund.
I’m a longtime season ticket holder and Fan of the Denver Bronco’s. Any time Villanueva comes to play in Denver I will be rooting for him over the Broncos.
Respecting our flag is respecting the men and women that gave their all for our freedoms. Not for a minority that thinks everything has to go their way. A lot of people came to this country and were treated bad, but they worked their way up, not just sit and demand everything be given to them. The people that do the kneeling, have done nothing to gripe about. Playing like children, getting paid a ridiculous amount of money, and then acting like babies and do nothing good, and whining because “I want” If it was up to me they would be deported.
Peaceful protest is one of Our 1st Amendment rights, BUT, showing a disgraceful disrespect for Our Flag, Anthem and directly all those who gave so much for them and us s beyond wrong, and YES, the commissioner should take a stand for America and tell the players if they can’t do the right thing for Our Symbols of America you can’t represent Our League, game or the team you have been playing for!
I admired Villeneuva for standing for the national anthem. I’m sorry that he feels he has to apologize. He does not. He did the right thing, The others are misinformed and foolish. In the USA, we are all equal. There are no class systems. Too many people are uninformed and ignorant of the great nation that we are. So sad and troubling.
The apology from Villanueva was not for standing. It was because there was confusion as to other players planning to join him. He has to live with these players so he was stuck in a tough place.
The bottom line that the players seem to be missing is that there is a time and place for political discussion and it is NOT at an NFL game where we want to be entertained.
If the tax benefit is truly taken away then the owner will make less money and then will be forced to pay the players less money.
Talk about shooting yourself in the foot…ouch!
1600 football players think that they are right.
300 million citizens think that they are wrong.
I’ll assume 30 million citizens agree with the players. This is one vote that the MAJORITY should win…we have had cymbals of unity for a long time before they showed up, our flag and anthem. Maybe they would prefer the Communist flag and an Obama theme song instead ?
I no long watch NFL GAMES OR PRO BASKETBALL I’m a proud American veteran
Since when are we NOT allowed to peacefully gather and voice our opinion? We are given the right to disagree and protest by our constitution. There’s more than racial discrimination in this country. There’s still a lot of discrimination against Deaf people by those who want to fix us and/or think they know everything about us when they know little or nothing. Well, we’re not broken and discrimination against anyone in any form is a disgrace and shows the ignorance if those perpetrating that discrimination, starting from the government and trickling down to every group and person in our society. Public outcry like the one we recently witnessed should be more frequent to wake people up. By the way, how does anyone know that those who kneeled weren’t saying a prayer? We still have religious freedom, right?
If NFL players want to protest do it on their own time make a blog, website, bumper sticker. Not during a game. I dont want their opinions in my game. This beahvior shouldnt be tolerated by the NFL either. Should be fined, or kicked out.
They are disrespectful of presidency and the Flag.
Stick to Football.
It seems Trump’s objections were not about the protest, but about disrespect for the flag. But I ask, “Since when is it disrespectful to kneel?” We kneel in church – is that disrespectful of God? People kneel before their kings – is that disrespectful?
It seems to me that sitting would be disrespectful but kneeling shows respect while breaking tradition in protest of the wrongs done.
What I am against is the violent division the reaction of the POTUS caused over this peaceful AND respectful protest. For someone who says he wants to make America Great Again, he seems to want to want to incite riots and divide this country.
Let’s attack the real issues and unite the country instead of arguing about such trivial items as whether a player is standing or kneeling. Let’s talk about WHY players are kneeling? That is the racism and the perception that blacks are being systematically subjected to horrible abuses including death.
NO!! Many people have lost BLOOD, legs, arms AND DIED for this nation!! Those who kneel and protest should all be sent to the battle areas. They can kneel and protest all they want just to help them understand that FREEDOM IS NOT FREE. Besides, I they feel this way about OUR COUNTRY let them move out of here for good, along with those who have such CONTENT FOR AMERICA!!
I respect everyone right to protest and speak up about topics that they sre important, but there is a time and place gor everything. It is also my rigjt to not listen to a protester if I choose. Football games are not the place for these sport stars to protest, let them do it on there own time. If I were to do this at my job I’d be fired.
We should all honor our country, flag, and soldiers. Keep the protest separate!!!
Spoiled little rich brats, I won’t watch any more sports again, I just don’t need them. Whine about not getting your millions when you can’t get paid due to poor attendance and ratings, serves you right. Go do your dog pee routine osmell you are and embarassment.
It seems to boil down to a matter of “Consequences”…The players, along with every other American citizen, enjoy all of the protections afforded them to them by the US Constitution.
They are perfectly within their “Rights”, afforded them by that same Constitution, to express their discontent with pretty much any issue they can conjure up, and in pretty much any fashion they please…”Taking a knee” being just one of many… while enjoying those “rights” without fear of retribution. Or so it would seem. In truth, they are still subject to “Consequences” that were initially unintended, but nevertheless, VERY real. In the end, their actions may well have huge ramifications for their incomes, their careers, and their causes, because they have opened a Pandora’s Box with no way to close the lid. The goodwill and support of fans across the country toward the NFL and the players is rapidly deteriorating, and the loss of revenue from those fans will impact them greatly. At the same time, the loss of entertainment that they provide will not hurt ANY of those fans…So who has to face the “Consequences” now ? Not me ! So, to sum up my feelings, Let ’em take a knee…!
I think it’s disgusting that people consider disrespect a civil right. It’s never okay to disrespect the flag of our nation. I served in the military for 4 years and it changed my outlook on the USA. I stand and remove my hat in a display of reverence and expect others to do so as well. I’m boycotting the NFL and will no longer contribute to fund this type of behavior
Players should not kneel when the national anthem is being played.
I agree with our President.
I am strongly against kneeling when the National
Anthem or any other son is being sung. If you don’t
like the USA, leave the country.
The players are paid very well to play a game and not make political statements, which should be made off the field. If they’re so concerned about equality they can share some of their wealth with the under privileged. Let’s hear how they would correct inequality! Their behavior is misplaced and regrettable.
I stand with President Donald J. Trump. These pampered misfits do not deserve to be employed by a team from the USA. I think they are disrespectful of our flag and anthem. Fire them all who have not disrespected our flag.
Football players have the constitutional right of freedom of expression. So does the President. Players also have responsibilities as they are looked up to as heroes by the younger generations. The flag, the constitution, the Bill of Rights and the anthem of the United States of America represent what this country stands for and what should be our values as a nation. Nothing here is perfect. These are the things that should be but some of them are not fully fulfilled at this time. To show disrespect to these national goals is to deny the very country we live and work in. My position, if I were a coach or an owner would be thus. If you elect to sit or kneel as a protest while the anthem is playing then I would have you check your helmet in the locker room and come out to the field where you could sit or kneel for the rest of the game. I would not fire you or say anything else to you. You have expressed your 1st amendment rights and I have expressed mine. Maybe you might want to actually play next week – maybe not. Your choice. Actions have consequences, rewards and opportunities. Causes no matter how great they are are not successful by sitting down or taking a knee. They are, however, given life and meaning by doing something positive. Time to get up and get off your *ss and help out those who are far less fortunate that you.
As a veteran, I feel betrayed by these athletes who are earning more money than about 75% of Americans. If this continues I will no longer watch or support Professional Sports.
Villanueva betrayed himself and all his fans.
The players made their choice.I stand with the player who stood.
we have the right to not watch or go to the games -which I am doing, Boycott games and sponsors!! Enough of us do that and the million dollar players will have their salaries cut. YEA!
that’s what they will stand for.
I FEEL JUST LIKE DONALD TRUMP, I JUST WOULD NOT HAVE SAID IT BECAUSE IT INFLAMED SENSITIVE BLACKS. I AM ASHAMED AND SURPRISED AT STELLER PLAYER THAT STOOD AND THEN APOLOGIZED, I THINK HE NEEDS TO APLLIGIGIZE TO AMERICA
Villanueva was probably coerced to make his statement. He served in the military, received an award. It’s not likely that he would backtrack here.Tomlin is a Hillary donor and a bully. He most
likely threatened Villanueva, who caved.
They have the right to freedom of speech. However, it is very disrespectful. I’m not sure why they are protesting.
The NFL has just opened “Pandora’s” Box.” For certain you will see this action soon appear in every sports venue including college and HS sports. The NFL has unwittingly expanded from the ‘sports entertainment’ industry to where it will soon become a platform for political and social issues across this nation. I shutter to think what theme(s) will be presented during the 2017-18 Super Bowl half-time show.
Villanueva – Don’t give into political pressure due to corporate pigs. Stand up for your rights and beliefs and never be ashamed. They are the ones that should be ashamed. Most of those people want to destroy american values and belief systems that have been indoctrinated for centuries. Our country was founded on them. Go live somewhere else if you don’t like what America stands for! NFL makes me sick! Not watching until they apologies for their communistic attitudes!
I think that those who do not respect the National Anthem should be kicked out of the country. I have no respect for them and people should boycott the teams and players who disrespect our country in this manner.
I believe in free speech. However there is a time and pace for everything. I also believe in respect for the people who gave us our freedoms. Let’s start will the Revolutionary War. Lots of people suffered and lots died to give us our freedom from England. Some were slave holders but that was in the 1700’s. The Constitution was created by a group of men and some of them were slave holders too. It wasn’t right but it was the 1700’s. Then finally we had a Civil War AND THE SLAVES WERE FREED THAT WAS THE 1860’S. Then in the 1900’s women were allowed to vote!! Then WWI and WWII lots of people suffered and lots of people died to help us keep our freedom again and again. Yes our country isn’t perfect. It’s taken over 200 years for us to get this good. HOWEVER OUR COUNTRY DOES DESERVE RESPECT. OUR FLAG DESERVES RESPECT. OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM DESERVES RESPECT.
I don’t spend my time or money to be offended.
Go protest someplace else.
It is free speech so why not go to a park.
People that don’t understand free speech in my country need to go back to school. I’ve no patience with their impatience, especially if they were unable to motivate their patriotism during VietNam and sought deferments from the draft. Sick of hypocrites!! Get it?
I wish he hadn’t apologized. His team mates should apologize to him. My husband is a VietNam Veteran who just had prostate cancer surgery due to Agent Orange. He still has issues with incontinence, His face peels everyday because of it. Ot hurts him everyday. Yet, these big boys go out to play a little boys game for so much money that is ridiculous . My husband may have his disability taken away when he is cancer free. His face will never be normal. But, every Veteran will say they they believe in free speech. I’m done with football. There are more important things to worry about, instead of a bunch of pansies crying for their “rights”. Get a real job. I know, go cry to ISIS, or the
Taliban. They’ll help you.
I think they should kneel, just not on the football field. They should try kneeling in church and everyone would be a lot happier!
Let them kneel or lay down or whatever so we can see who the traitors are. Making them stand when they are against our country doesn’t show the whole picture. They cannot change their hearts, no matter how much you make them stand.
The First Amendment does not apply when people are at work, you’r not allowed to express your opinion on the job unless your employer allows it, and they should not. Just imagine an UPS Driver delivering packages, when you answer the door he first goes into a diatribe about how he doesn’t like your flowers, your dress, your hair, your Rush Bumper Sticker, whatever, how long do you think he/she would have a job? I don’t watch football to see players protesting, especially our Flag and Anthem, I’m a proud Veteran, we shed too much blood to allow these cry babies to protest our country, no way jose!!
I’m sick and tired of hearing people say they have a Constitutional right to kneel. Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. I have a Constitutional right to insult everyone I meet. Does that mean I have right to complain if they don’t like it?
Shame on all the players and NFL!!! I stand and pray for the fallen!!! Maybe these idiots need a lesson in history! I am a season ticket holder in Green Bay and will be taking a “knee” for the game tonight!!!! Total disrespect!!!
Every one of those players who either stayed in the locker room or took a knee during the National Anthem should be inducted into the military and sent to serve in Afghanistan. They are acting like spoiled brat children of privilege.
Villanueva should be praised for doing what he did, although I worry his subsequent apology may have been made under duress. Trump too has the right idea, although perhaps overstated. I am shocked at Americans that fail to realize that united we stand, divided we fall. Support for America must always be part of that united. Protest all you want to as it is part of freedom, but not when called upon to show a united love and support for our country. And if there is ever an attempted coup in this country national guard troops will naturally target those who have so blatantly shown their lack of support. Kneeling is certainly constitutional, but it is not very wise.
Time to boycott the NFL.
YES THEY SHOULD!!! You think black Americans are free from the worry of being shot by agents of the state? That’s the whole thing that they’re protesting in the first place.
This idea that black people should be grateful is some sneaky-ass racism. Yeah because when a white billionaire spends a year screaming that America is a disaster, he’s in touch with the country; but when a black man kneels quietly he should be grateful for the successes America has allowed him to have? How is that ungrateful? I don’t understand. You know what would be ungrateful? What would be ungrateful is if Stevie Wonder got his sight back and then started complaining about colors
I mean we know it’s wrong to do it in the streets.
It’s wrong to do it in the tweets.
You cannot do it on the field.
You cannot do it if you’ve kneeled.
And don’t do it if you’re rich,
You ungrateful son of a bitch.
Because there’s one thing that’s a fact:
You cannot protest if you’re black
FURTHERMORE: Villanueva is only a citizen because his parents, both of who are from Spain, gave birth to him while stationed here during their NATO our. Spaniards, by nature are racist towards blacks as attested to by blacks treatment there, Villanueva knows nothing of the racist history of this country except for the watered down history he was taught, if any, while attending private schools and is completely ignorant of the facts. Blacks have fought in “EVERY” war in this country and in many instances returned home to racism, and no matter who they are have earned the right to protest as they feel is right, especiallt against a divisive president who has emboldened racist attitudes, thoughts and deeds . Patriots and Protesters Should Take a Knee for the Constitution—-Stop falling for the distractions. Stop allowing yourself to be fooled by propaganda and partisan politics. Stop acting as if the only thing worth getting outraged about is whether a bunch of football players stand or kneel for the National Anthem. Stop being armchair patriots and start acting like foot soldiers for the Constitution. Remember, it’s all a game, a ruse, a dance intended to keep you in line and marching to the government’s tune instead of freedom’s call. In this age of spin doctors and manipulation, those who question the motives of government provide a necessary counterpoint to those who would blindly follow where politicians choose to lead. Past regimes understood well how to manipulate and maneuver. As Hermann Goering, one of Hitler’s top military leaders, remarked during the Nuremberg trials: It is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is to tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country.
Their paid to play ball not protest, protest on their on time. If I protested at work I wouldn’t have a job
If you are an American, whether you are in sports or not, you should respect our customs and our flag. Otherwise, leave the country and don’t bother coming back!! If you don’t like the way your government is handing America, run for election and try to improve whatever you disagree with, but do not expect me to support and pay good money to watch any player play a sport who is against my country’s flag and what it represents!! Many people died so that we could be free to fly that flag. If you don’t respect the flag then you surely do not respect the sacrifices they made for your liberty.
They get paid to play football. No one cares what they think or how they feel.
Sounds to me like a POW who has been tortured, then made to say that or be shot in the head!
While I appreciate the stand taken, and stand with them myself, I feel they could have done it without disrespecting our flag. With our constitution and bible in hand, Quoting the constitution and the bible all are equal would have been a better choice. In my personal opinion.
The national sports network is not the place to voice personal
Political views
Do it on your own time and space
As a retired Veteran I stand a d salute the flag during our National anthem. As a Christian I kneel only for the cross of my Lord. Sporting has o business promoting politi s of this nature.
I personally do not think that they should use an NFL stage for politics especially when it disrespects our Country, the Flag and our Veterans. NFL was one of the last common grounds that reminded us that we are United.
The national anthem is an arbitrarily chosen song and represents nothing. It is not our country; it is not the flag. If you believe in the 1st amendment and your right to speak your mind, then you believe in other people’s right to speak theirs. It’s just that simple. The Pentagon pays the NFL millions to put on patriotic displays at games. It is only recently that players were even on the field when the anthem played. So get over yourself–if you really love free speech as you say below, don’t deny it to others..
Spoiled rich brats! We vets stand and hands and hats over our hearts during National Anthem.
Bruce US Army veg.
I will never watch another football game. Total disrespect for our flag and country. I stand for our country and finally a President that loves America!!!!!!!
sure, they can disrespect the country. then we should deport them to the country of their choice free of charge.
I think it is a crying shame. If the teammates think they have a right to protest how they want to then why doesn’t Villanunva have the right to do what he wants to without feeling guilty. I am sure his teammates made him feel that way. The problem is it is always one sided.
I saw one facebook (not sure if true) but it said that in the contract for the NFL that it is required that the players have to be on the field during the National Anthem and stand and place their hand over their heart.
I am not a sports fan, but I read the above article and was impressed for that one player to stand up during the Anthem and the rest stayed out of sight, how disgusting is that, not to honor our flag. Villanueva probably got pressured to apologize and he folded, how sad.
Sad so sad. The 1 that had the heart to stand up for the flag has now joined the group of disrespectful & should feel the same shame
Some are saying that President Trump’s comments on this matter have been divisive. Can they actually not see how divisive these players are being when they are disrespectful of our flag and anthem? Isn’t it also about time for those protesting to say what they are protesting and give specific reasons for what they are doing?
It’s too bad he felt the need to apologize. I wish the press would focus in on the people who support the national anthem and what it represents. Every person who feels the need to disrespect the custom should be sent to Iraq and fight for their life and freedom for a few months. Maybe then they will understand the significance of the flag and national anthem as they try to stand at attention but can’t because their legs got blown off or shrapnel ripped thru their helmet and blinded them.