NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith is backing the players when it comes to owners such as Jerry Jones threatening to bench players who choose to sit. Smith wrote:
"No player is disrespecting our country or our flag. As thousands have shown in the past, it takes bravery and courage to speak and confront these issues as our players have, especially when it is unpopular with some. There is room for management to do the same and maybe then players do not have to risk the taunts and threats alone. This is their opportunity to lead as well and will be a true test of their motto that "Football is Family,"