NFL not changing national anthem policy

NEW YORK - In the face of fan unrest and accusations from the president about the league being unpatriotic, the NFL is not changing its national anthem policy to require players to stand. Commissioner Roger Goodell and several owners said Wednesday at the league’s fall meetings that altering the policy language from “should stand” to “must stand” was not discussed. Goodell reiterated that the league and its 32 clubs “believe everyone should stand for the national anthem.

It’s an important part of our policy and the game. It’s important to honour our flag and our country and I think our fans expect that.”