NFL Fumbles Another One

For everyone that is so upset over the protest of the National Anthem where is that same energy for those that abuse their wives on Saturday night but play on Sunday? Where’s that energy when another unarmed person of color is gunned down on camera just to be lost in “insufficient” evidence or when nobody is charged with the crime? Why is that the instant authority is questioned based on a quality grievance it becomes problematic and an “Us vs Them” argument? Of all the issues within the NFL Front Office that are overlooked for being uncomfortable conversations why is one of the most relevant discussions of our time being thrown in the corner?

Aside from the fact that a Veteran suggested Kaepernick kneel to begin with in regards to his original idea of sitting down being more disrespectful, when did the pregame anthem become the time for everyone to show the upmost respect for the country? You mean to tell me that everyone in the stadium and everyone at home has to remain silent and stand for the anthem too? Y’all let me know when homeboy in the concession stand tells the customer to hold on until the song is over, or just let me when the family at home has to stop eating until commercial break. Better yet, everyone out in Kansas City let me know when fans stop yelling “Chiefs” in the middle of the song at Arrowhead. If the NFL wants to tighten up then tighten all the way up, don’t stop at the first notch and think nobody will notice. If they were serious about their decision than no sales would be made during the Anthem and every screen in the venue would be on the American Flag and the performer. Leave the halfsteppin’ for the Deion Sanders highlight reel.

For all of you who disagree with the protest you have every right to do so (just like the people that are protesting), but until you truly understand it’s intent and can honestly say you have an equally productive alternative please have a seat (after the Anthem of course).

There is physical evidence that shows the mistreatment of American citizens, there is supporting evidence of injustices across this country, and there has been multiple cases on various platforms proving the protest to be legitimate. What more do people need to see? These players found the perfect time to make a statement to where they can do so in a non-violent way that speaks volumes to those on both sides and yet there is still an issue.

Yes, the Owners that voted are employers of the players which would provide them with leverage but the last time I checked each person is still subject to their inalienable rights, if those rights aren’t respected simply based on the fact the Owners got in their feelings then we might as call them indentured servants and base the team names off of plantations.

This is supposed to be the “Land of the Free”, and the “Home of the Brave” right? But for who? Those who protest the anthem are using their free speech in addition to exercising their rights as citizens by protesting injustices among the masses during a song that was intended to mean the exact same thing.

At the end of the day to be completely honest? It’s all about the money. The NFL would rather keep their pockets full then be considered socially conscious or simply aware for that matter which is why they’re in this situation. Leagues such as the NBA tend to survive with a quality players association and front offices that actually listen to its players and their realities which tends to weather the storm well, not so much because they choose politically but because they tend to decide with common sense and an open mind.  I’m not saying the NFL is the opposite but…. Goodell’s office is the upside down at this point.

 

-Malcolm Anderson

About Malcolm

Malcolm Anderson is a Cum Laude graduate of Reinhardt University. From the beginning of his education the ideas of creativity and ever expanding curiosity were instilled in him. He loves working with children and  helping them believe that they can do anything they put their mind to, a lesson he was taught from an early age. Although his focus is on Sport Media Malcolm has been writing for various mediums over the past few years and aims to expand his repertoire in efforts to reach as many people as possible. 

 

 

Feel free to reach out to him on Social Media! 

Twitter: @Pen_GriffeyJr

Instagram: @maccofalltrades