NFL players resumed their demonstrations during the national anthem in the first week of preseason on Thursday.
In Miami, Dolphins receivers Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson took a knee during the national anthem, while defensive end Robert Quinn raised his right fist.
Stills, who kneeled during the anthem the past two seasons, said he and Wilson didn’t plan the protest together beforehand, but was comforted to see his teammate join him.
“Being a part of this protest hasn’t been easy,” Stills said. “I thought I was going to be by myself out there. Today I had an angel with me with Albert being out there. I’m grateful he sees what’s happening, and he wants to do something about it as well.”
Quinn, meanwhile, raised his fist as he did last season with the Los Angeles Rams.
“As a black man in this world, I’ve got an obligation to raise awareness,” Quinn said. “If no one wants to live in unity, that’s why we’re in the situation we’re in.”
Colin Kaepernick, who started the movement of protesting during the anthem and is currently a free agent, showed his support for Stills and Wilson on Twitter.
My brother @kstills continued his protest of systemic oppression tonight by taking a knee. Albert Wilson @iThinkIsee12 joined him in protest. Stay strong brothers!✊🏾
— Colin Kaepernick (@Kaepernick7) August 10, 2018
📸 @footcandles#imwithkap #imwithereid #takeaknee pic.twitter.com/LimoadfUcW
Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins again raised his fist during the national anthem, with teammate Chris Long putting his arm around him to show support, as he often did last season. Cornerback De’Vante Bausby also raised his fist.
In Jacksonville, four Jaguars players – Telvin Smith, Jalen Ramsey, Leonard Fournette and T.J. Yeldon – weren’t on the field during the national anthem.
Three Seattle Seahawks players – Branden Jackson, Quinton Jefferson and Duane Brown – left the field before the playing of the anthem in their game against Indianapolis.
In Baltimore, Ravens linebacker Tim Williams stood alone in front of the bench with his back towards the field during the anthem.
The league issued a statement on Thursday night reiterating that ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ will continued to be played before games and everyone is expected to stand, or remain in the locker room.
“There has been no change in the NFL’s policy regarding the national anthem,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in a statement. “The anthem will continue to be played before every game, and all player and non-player personnel on the field at that time are expected to stand during the presentation of the flag and performance of the anthem. Personnel who do not wish to do so can choose to remain in the locker room.
“We remain committed to working with the players to identify solutions and to continue making progress on important social issues affecting our communities.”
