Multiple NFL players continue on-field protests during national anthem

Miami Dolphins wide receivers Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson kneeled during the national anthem before their game against the New York Jets on Sunday, continuing on-field protests that have taken place during NFL games since 2016.

While Stills and Wilson kneeled, Dolphins defensive end Robert Quinn raised his fist throughout the duration of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

{mosads} “We started the protest two years ago now and we’re not going anywhere,” Stills said, according to the Palm Beach Post. “It’s not going to change. Activism isn’t something you just kind of get involved in and then turn your back on it.”

While no other players kneeled during the anthem this week, multiple athletes reportedly remained in the locker room during the performance.

Sports Illustrated reported that Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch, as well as Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas and linebacker Brandon Marshall, were not seen on the field for the anthem before the teams’ game.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Michael Bennett also remained in the locker room before his team’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The publication noted that all other players who were on the field for their respective games stood for the national anthem.

The demonstrations on Sunday came a week after ESPN reported that the NFL would not implement a policy that would force players to stand for the national anthem if they were on the field.

The policy, which was initially voted on by owners in May, gave rise to considerable backlash from players. The league eventually froze the policy in July after the NFL Players Association filed a grievance.

President Trump has repeatedly railed against NFL players who kneel during the national anthem. He asserted earlier this year that players “shouldn’t be in the country” if they don’t stand for the anthem.

Stills and Wilson have kneeled during the anthem of every Dolphins game so far this season. The demonstration in the NFL season opener last week drew praise from former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who was the first player to kneel during the anthem in 2016. 

“They have not backed down, even when attacked and intimidated. Their courage will move the world forward!” Kaepernick tweeted. “‘Love is at the root of our resistance!’”