In the days since the disqualifications, the league has doubled down on its new stance, defending the decision as necessary to “preserve the integrity of the game.” But others are questioning whether the NFL has, in its attempt to be free of politics, become even more political than ever before.
Players who once kneeled in silent protest now face a league that has gone from reluctant tolerance to full-blown authoritarianism. If there was ever a middle ground in the debate, it has officially been bulldozed by the NFL’s declaration that “this season, there will be no wokeness.”
So, what will the future hold for the disqualified players? Are they permanently banned from the league, or will they be allowed to return after signing a pledge of patriotic allegiance? Will the NFL’s new anti-kneeling stance alienate the very players who make the league what it is?
For now, one thing is clear: If you’re planning to play football in the NFL this season, keep your feet firmly planted during the anthem—or you might find yourself disqualified faster than you can say “first down.”
