The Caldwell Guardian did some follow-up research on a post in the Boise Guardian about NFL Player conduct during the National Anthem. Page A-62-63 was cited for the following quote:
"The National Anthem must be played prior to every NFL game, and all players must be on the sideline for the National Anthem.
During the National Anthem, players on the field and bench area should stand at attention, face the flag, hold helmets in their left hand, and refrain from talking. The home team should ensure that the American flag is in good condition. It should be pointed out to players and coaches that we continue to be judged by the public in this area of respect for the flag and our country. Failure to be on the field by the start of the National Anthem may result in discipline, such as fines, suspensions, and/or the forfeiture of draft choice(s) for violations of the above, including first offenses".
Given all the money these guys make for playing the game you would like to think they could at least follow the rules in the NFL Rule Book. All The Guardian had to do was enter NFL RUlE Book Pages A-62-63 to find the above quote from the rule book.
I ask myself everyday what these guys would be doing if not for their positions on a professional sports team. Certainly few would be making what they make playing football. The game is starting to suffer from a lack of parental support at lower levels now that we know about CTE brain damage.
Time takes care of all problems and lack of future players looms large with this game Americans love so much. More things that create a negative perception aren't helping the image of the game.
You have to ask yourself, what would these guys be doing if they didn't make the team. I love watching the best of the best playing a game most people love but for them to snub fans and other team members over standing at the playing of the National Anthem really bothers me. Now I learn they are in violation of the NFL Rules and the weak-kneed owners and Roger Goodell do nothing. The sanctions are all spelled out but why aren't they enforced?
ReplyDeleteWe all know what they would be doing.. not much of anything and would be in the lines for free food and food stamps.
ReplyDelete