Texans' O'Brien defends Duane Brown's anthem protest

Duane Brown was the lone player in Thursday night's game to make a stand during the national anthem.

The Houston Texans left tackle raised a fist during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner," joining a growing list of NFLers publicly protesting against racial inequality and police brutality in America.

Texans head coach Bill O'Brien said he has no problem with his players joining the movement, as long as they stand for the anthem.

"We've been clear as an organization that our expectation for the Houston Texans is that we stand for the national anthem," O'Brien said Friday. "This team has a long history of supporting our veterans, active military, and our first responders. This support has been evident since the inception of the franchise. I understand that there is a lot going on in this country right now and that we all have strong opinions about it.

"Duane Brown expressed himself during the anthem, which is his right. It is his right of free speech. It's his right to do what he did during the anthem last night. I support his individual right to do that."

O'Brien spoke with the injured lineman after the game and reiterated that he has no issue with his actions.

"I'm not concerned at all about what our players are going to do as it related to that," O'Brien said. "Again, I think it's their right to express their opinion."