The New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons joined the recent string of pregame protests started by Colin Kaepernick, but the two teams took a much different approach on Monday night.
Once the anthem was over, players from both teams came together in the middle of the field and formed a circle while holding hands.
ESPN play-by-play announcer Sean McDonough explained that Drew Brees and Matt Ryan had spoken during the week, with the two clubs ultimately agreeing to be respectful of the anthem before making a show of togetherness and unity.
Brees has been critical of Kaepernick's protest style, claiming it was "disrespectful to the American flag."