A small group of NFL players told Jim Trotter of NFL Media they're considering a different on-field gesture during the national anthem.
Those players admitted to Trotter they hadn't thought about demonstrating during the 2018 season. But on Wednesday the NFL introduced new rules that will require players to "stand and show respect for the flag" or stay in the locker room.
The NFL will fine teams if their players or personnel do not stand for the anthem when on the field.
Players weren't consulted by the league, and a number of them have spoken out.
Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins said the league's owners are thwarting players' "constitutional rights to express themselves," and his teammate Chris Long said the players have a "right to peaceful protest."
