In a brief interview on ESPN’s “NFL Live” on Wednesday afternoon, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank discussed his thoughts on Tuesday’s meeting with the NFL, players and select owners.
Blank was one of several owners to meet with players during this week's NFL owners meeting to promote discussion about why players are protesting and what the NFL can do.
Owners from the Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers also were present.
“Players were articulate, emotional, intense about their feelings, about their love for the country, about their love for the flag, for the national anthem and about the social issues they’re concerned about,” Blank said. “There was a series of discussions. I think all the suggestions, in my opinion, were excellent and I think the owners in the room ... I think were very supportive and feel good about their participation. I wouldn’t say support, I would say, their sense of - we have a responsibility too on these social issues like we all do as Americans.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell held a press conference at the conclusion of the meeting Wednesday to share the discussions with players and the league's decision to not create a rule requiring players to stand during the national anthem.
The NFL owners, players and Goodell have a follow-up meeting scheduled for Oct. 31, according to ESPN.
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