The NFL announced on Wednesday that it will enact a new policy on standing for the national anthem.
Players and league personnel will now be required to stand if they are on the field during the national anthem. Any player that protests on the sideline will be fined by the NFL, and could also be fined by his team.
Players and personnel will also have the option to remain in the locker room during the anthem.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the following in a statement:
"The policy adopted today was approved in concert with the NFL's ongoing commitment to local communities and our country -- one that is extraordinary in its scope, resources, and alignment with our players. We are dedicated to continuing our collaboration with players to advance the goals of justice and fairness in all corners of our society.
"It was unfortunate that on-field protests created a false perception among many that thousands of NFL players were unpatriotic. This is not and was never the case."
The changes were unanimously approved by NFL owners.
Below is a look at the league's full statement, as well as the response from the NFLPA.
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