Anthem protests are going to continue in 2018 despite this new policy-- The key reason is that liberal media organizations and social justice groups will continue to encourage and support players who participate
After a year of intense controversy concerning player protests during the National Anthem, the NFL finally decided to act. At the spring NFL owners meeting this week, a decision was made to require players to “stand and show respect” during the National Anthem if they are on the playing field. Otherwise, players will be given the option to remain in the locker room. If players or club personnel on the field show disrespect during the National Anthem by not standing, their team will be fined by the NFL.
In accordance with instituting the anthem policy, the 32 NFL team owners also “reaffirmed their strong commitment to work alongside our players to strengthen our communities and advance social justice.” This commitment will include “extraordinary resources” for programs that “promote positive social change in our communities.” According to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, “We are honored to work with our players to drive progress.”