Trump: Players should stand for anthem for 'privilege' of NFL career
President Donald Trump doubled down on his comments from Friday, tweeting Saturday that any player who shows "disrespect" by protesting during the U.S. national anthem should lose the "privilege" of playing in the NFL.
If a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL,or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 23, 2017
...our Great American Flag (or Country) and should stand for the National Anthem. If not, YOU'RE FIRED. Find something else to do!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 23, 2017
Related - Trump rips anthem protesters: 'Get that son of a b---- off the field'
Trump called for NFL owners to fire any players who protest during the "Star-Spangled Banner" at a rally Friday in Alabama.
The president's comments have led to an outpouring of criticism from around the NFL.
Roger Goodell said Trump's words "demonstrate an unfortunate lack of respect for the NFL. Players Association director DeMaurice Smith added: "No man or woman should ever have to choose a job that forces them to surrender their rights." Richard Sherman described the president's behavior "unacceptable."
Related: NFLers continue to condemn Trump's call to fire anthem protesters
NFL players are reportedly considering further protests in Week 3 in the wake of Trump's remarks.