The NFL and NFLPA released a statement Wednesday about potential policy changes related to player participation during the national anthem.
Commissioner Roger Goodell stated in a letter Tuesday that he believes every player should stand for the anthem, but both governing bodies wrote Wednesday that no amendments are to be added to the league's policy during meetings next week.
Commissioner Roger Goodell reached out to NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith today and both he and player leadership will attend the League meetings next week. There has been no change in the current policy regarding the anthem. The agenda will be a continuation of how to make progress on the important social issues that players have vocalized. Everyone who is part of our NFL community has a tremendous respect for our country, our flag, our anthem and our military, and we are coming together to deal with these issues in a civil and constructive way.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Tuesday that owners would consider a rule change that would make standing during the national anthem mandatory.
In September, President Donald Trump suggested NFL owners should fire players who protested racial inequality and police brutality during the anthem at a rally in Alabama. He has since continued his offensive against the league, posting multiple rants directed at player protests.
On Sunday, Vice President Mike Pence abruptly left Sunday's game between the Indianapolis Colts and San Francisco 49ers, alarmed by numerous players kneeling during the anthem.