Multiple NFL owners came out on Saturday and released statements that were critical of President Donald Trump’s comments made in Alabama on Friday.
During a speech in Huntsville, Trump termed any NFL player who protests the anthem a “son of a b—-,” and said he would love to see an owner fire players who protested.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a strong statement condemning Trump’s words as “divisive.” Later in the day, several team owners weighed in. Below are many of the statements.
Giants owners Steve Tisch and John Mara:
A statement from #Giants owners John Mara and Steve Tisch, in response to Trump's comments on the anthem: pic.twitter.com/7HJufV6Bpz
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 23, 2017
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross:
Statement from Miami Dolphins Owner and Founder of Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE) Stephen Ross. pic.twitter.com/6W3mXwJO6M
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) September 23, 2017
Buffalo Bills owners Kim and Terry Pegula:
Statement from Buffalo Bills Owners Terry and Kim Pegula. pic.twitter.com/i3D5xzBBSn
— Buffalo Bills (@buffalobills) September 24, 2017
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie:
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 24, 2017
49ers CEO/son of team owners, Jed York:
— Jed York (@JedYork) September 23, 2017
Falcons owner Arthur Blank:
From @AtlantaFalcons owner and chairman Arthur Blank: pic.twitter.com/1eJGoMLjn4
— Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) September 23, 2017
Steelers owner Art Rooney:
Of course, there's also this "statement" from Steelers president Art Rooney (via @JFowlerESPN) pic.twitter.com/yMdb0YS9Pu
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) September 23, 2017
Packers CEO Mark Murphy sent this statement:
“It’s unfortunate that the President decided to use his immense platform to make divisive and offensive statements about our players and the NFL. We strongly believe that players are leaders in our communities and positive influences. They have achieved their positions through tremendous work and dedication and should be celebrated for their success and positive impact. We believe it is important to support any of our players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for good. As Americans, we are fortunate to be able to speak openly and freely.”
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin is a player, not an owner, but his statement is worth reading:
#Seahawks WR @DougBaldwinJr official statement to me on Donald Trump's remarks on national anthem protests in the @NFL. pic.twitter.com/pPA6ZR6UcB
— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 23, 2017
