The firestorm over NFL players disrespecting the national anthem is not over.
The NFL Players Association, a union that represents all NFL players, sued the NFL on Tuesday for their adoption of a new anthem policy. The NFLPA filed a grievance challenging new policy that forces all players to stand on the field during the anthem.
“The union’s claim is that this new policy, imposed by the NFL’s governing body without consultation with the NFLPA, is inconsistent with the collective bargaining agreement and infringes on player rights,” a press release from the union said.
JUST IN: NFLPA files grievance challenging NFL’s new anthem policy:
“The union’s claim is that this new policy, imposed by the NFL’s governing body without consultation with the NFLPA, is inconsistent with the collective bargaining agreement and infringes on player rights.” pic.twitter.com/YJu7hbrUL9
— NBC News (@NBCNews) July 10, 2018
Last year, the NFL found itself in the middle of a national firestorm over mass anthem protests by payers after President Trump declared that those who kneel for the anthem should be fired. The protests quickly became political and NFL boycotts led to record-low ratings and attendance.
This spring, league owners came together and instituted new rules for players and the anthem.
According to Sports Illustrated:
In May, NFL owners unanimously approved a new anthem policy that requires players to stand if they are on the field during the performance of the Star-Spangled Banner. The new policy gives players the option to remain in the locker room, if they want. The NFL subjects the teams to a fine, if a player or a member of team personnel does not show respect for the anthem.