NFL players mull anthem proposal
The NFL is seeking an agreement with its players that they will stand for the national anthem, with the league proposing to contribute nearly US$100 million (NZ$146 million) to causes considered important to Africanamerican communities.
The NFL proposed joining with its players in a bid to spur social justice change, although not all players are on board with the proposal.
The league submitted the final draft to players on Monday (Tuesday NZ time).
The NFL wants players to stand for the anthem in return and put an end to the controversial movement that former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began last season.
If the players accept the league’s proposal, then the owners would vote to complete the deal at the annual league meetings in March, according to ESPN.
National funding as part of the league’s current plan would offer 25 per cent to the United Negro College Fund and another 25 per cent to Dream Corps. The Players Coalition, which has filed for paperwork for nonprofit status, would get the other 50 per cent.
Two players already have expressed displeasure with the NFL’S proposal and plan to part from the Players Coalition, a group of approximately 40 players. Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins and former NFL wide receiver Anquan Boldin are viewed as the leaders of the Players Coalition.
San Francisco safety Eric Reid and Miami Dolphins safety Michael Thomas said they are withdrawing by releasing the same statement.
‘‘With much thought and consideration, I’ve decided to officially withdraw my involvement in The Players Coalition founded by Malcolm Jenkins and Anquan Boldin,’’ the statement read.
‘‘The Players Coalition was supposed to be formed as a group that represents NFL athletes who have been silently protesting social injustices and racism. However, Malcolm and Anquan can no longer speak on our behalf as we don’t believe the coalition’s beliefs are in our best interests as a whole.’’
Kaepernick opted out of his deal with the 49ers in the spring and has remained unsigned with some believing he is being blackballed from the league. Kaepernick filed a grievance against the NFL in October accusing teams of collusion.