NFL game operations manual regarding National Anthem

rick64

Well-known member
Jan 25, 2007
22,882
947
113
https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/09/25/does-nfl-require-players-stand-national-anthem

Here’s what the game operations manual says regarding the national anthem, according to an NFL spokesperson:

"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."
 

fuzz77

New member
Sep 19, 2012
12,163
629
0
"should" <> "must".

Also, it says "failure to be on the field by the start..." ... it does not say; "...failure to be on the field standing at attention,...". It's a rule if anyone attempted to enforce and was challenged in court would never withstand the challenge. It's simply poorly written if the intent was to insure that all players stand, etc. Any decent defense lawyer would chop it up like mince meat. The NFL knows this which is why they haven't tried to enforce it.