Miami Dolphins wide receivers Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson took a knee during the playing of the national anthem prior to the team’s preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday.
Their protest to raise awareness towards inequality and social injustice in the country comes after the NFL put a freeze on their national anthem policy.
The NFL and the NFLPA released a joint statement announcing that the two sides reached a standstill and would explore a resolution to the national anthem protests that have been going on. The Dolphins made headlines last month when it was reported that the organization included a policy to their player discipline rules under the section “Proper Anthem Conduct.” Any player who failed to abide by those guidelines were eligible to receive suspensions, fines or both. When the national anthem policy was stalled, the Dolphins’ policy was also put on hold.
The NFL released a statement after Stills and Wilson took a knee.
NFL statement on at least two players, #Dolphins WRs Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson, kneeling during the national anthem tonight. No clubs can implement discipline while talks with union continue. pic.twitter.com/dx22XiNYhN
According to USA Today Sports, Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey, linebacker Telvin Smith, and running backs Leonard Fournette and T.J. Yeldon stayed in the locker room on Thursday night. Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Michael Bennett walked onto the field during the playing of the anthem, and stood behind his teammates. Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins and cornerback De’Vante Bausby, as well as Dolphins defensive end Robert Quinn raised their fists.
