The NFL and its players reacted to criticism from President Donald Trump, who encouraged team owners Friday night to fire athletes who protest racial and social injustice during the playing of the national anthem.
Green Bay Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy issued a statement Saturday afternoon offering support for “players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for the good.”
“It’s unfortunate that the President decided to use his immense platform to make divisive and offensive statements about our players and the NFL,” Murphy said in a statement he released this afternoon. “We strongly believe that players are leaders in our communities and positive influences. They have achieved their positions through tremendous work and dedication and should be celebrated for their success and positive impact. We believe it is important to support any of our players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for good. As Americans, we are fortunate to be able to speak openly and freely.”
Meanwhile, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Saturday that Trump’s comments about players who kneel during the national anthem are “divisive” and show an “unfortunate lack of respect.”
Packers wide receiver Davante Adams tweeted that “We’ll ‘stick to football’ when we see progress.”
We'll "stick to football" when we see progress. Our Nations leader can't even set a good example of how it looks to be a great American
— Davante Adams (@tae15adams) September 23, 2017
