Matthew Slater Shares New England Patriots’ Approach To National Anthem

The National Football League faced serious problems last seasons as some of the players took a knee during the National Anthem. How will things develop this season?

The National Anthem was disrespected in the worst way possible. Players raised fists, took a knee, remained in the locker rooms or just sat down. Everybody hopes that things will change this year, and the NFL is concerned about this major issue.

The NFL first instilled a new policy in the offseason. It was created for a very good cause, but triggered an outrage among players. Patriots safety Devin McCourty criticized it.

“This is dumb. I wouldn’t say that was a compromise. I would go out there and say not many players are happy or feel that’s the right way to do it. We’ll see how that all comes about,” Devin said.

The NFL and NFLPA have discussed over some alternatives, but these were put on hold. Patriots special teams captain Matthew Slater went on WEEI’s Ordway, Merloni and Fauria to talk about the policy.

“As you saw during the preseason, the first preseason game, we all stood. I think as a team we feel that is the best thing for us to do and I think you can look for more of that moving forward,” he said.

Some players elected to kneel prior the matchup with the Texans. But, after the 16 players took a knee, the Pats proceeded to stand, and hold one hand on their heart and the other on their teammate’s shoulder pad.

“I wouldn’t say I am frustrated. I think it is a very difficult issue. I think people on both sides of the aisle feel very strongly about it and I am hoping we can reach an agreement where everyone feels respected, everyone feels heard and we’re doing the right thing for everyone. In an ideal world that is what you have,” Slater added.

Let’s see what happens this season.