Report: Goodell, NFLPA director discussed how to handle Trump criticism

In a rare display of unity, commissioner Roger Goodell and NFL Players Association director DeMaurice Smith discussed Saturday how best to approach the criticism regarding player protests from President Donald Trump, league sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Goodell and Smith also spoke to Malcolm Jenkins, as the Philadelphia Eagles safety is one of a handful of players who have protested during the anthem this season and is considered a leader among players when it comes to social activism.

Both Goodell and Smith see the Trump controversy as an opportunity for the league to help unite the country, added Schefter.

Unprecedented protests from players are expected around the league Sunday.

Trump continued his war of words with the NFL on Sunday following his original criticism at a rally Friday in Alabama. The president called for fans to boycott the league if NFL owners don't take action against protesters.

Trump tweeted, "Fire or suspend!"