While some owners have abided by the league’s request to not discuss the anthem protest issue while the NFL and NFLPA work towards a resolution, Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones has not.
On Wednesday, Jones revealed to reporters that he had told his players they have to stand for the national anthem.
“Our policy is you stand during the anthem, toe on the line,” Jones said.
While inspiring to many fans who want to see players respect the flag and anthem, Jones’ statement contradicts the league policy passed in May, which gives players the right to remain in the locker room. That policy is now frozen while the league and players work out a compromise.
A joint statement by the league and the NFLPA makes clear that no additional changes or amendments to the rule can be made, until the new rule is unveiled.
According to the statement: “No new rules relating to the anthem will be issued or enforced for the next several weeks while these confidential discussions are ongoing.”
Jones also commented on President Trump’s criticisms of the league, and their struggle to come up with an appropriate anthem conduct rule.
“Everybody would like for it to go away,” Jones said of Trump’s criticisms.
Follow Dylan Gwinn on Twitter @themightygwinn