New York Jets owner Christopher Johnson said Wednesday the team will pay fines for Jets players if they choose to stay in the locker room or not to stand during the playing of the national anthem this season, according to a report by the Associated Press.
» Jeff Schultz: Will this policy work?
During Wednesday's NFL owners' meeting in Atlanta, owners approved implementing fines if players do not stand during the playing of the national anthem.
Many NFL players peacefully protested by kneeling, sitting, locking arms or raising a fist during the playing of the national anthem over the past two seasons to demonstrate against police brutality and social injustice.
» More: Read the new policy
Johnson said in a statement Wednesday he plans to sit down with Jets coach Todd Bowles and the players to discuss the new rule surrounding player behavior during the playing of the national anthem.
“As I have in the past, I will support our players wherever we land as a team,” Johnson’s statement said in part. “Our focus is not on imposing any Club rules, fines or restrictions. Instead we will continue to work closely with our players to constructively advance social justice issues that are important to us.
“I remain extremely proud of how we demonstrated unity last season as well as our players’ commitment to strengthening our communities.”
