The NFL is making a statement in response to Donald Trump.
On Saturday, after tweeting the Warriors' invitation to the White House has been withdrawn, Trump tweeted about sports teams standing up during the national anthem. "If a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL,or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect.......our Great American Flag (or Country) and should stand for the National Anthem. If not, YOU'RE FIRED. Find something else to do!" Trump wrote on Twitter.
Trump also made similar comments during a rally in Alabama on Friday.
In response to Trump, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell issued a statement. "The NFL and our players are at our best when we help create a sense of unity in our country and our culture. There is no better example than the amazing response from our clubs and players to the terrible natural disasters we've experienced over the last month. Divisive comments like these demonstrate an unfortunate lack of respect for the NFL, our great game and all of our players, and a failure to understand the overwhelming force for good our clubs and players represent in our communities," the statement read (via USA Today).
When Trump heard about Goodell's statement, he responded on Twitter. "Roger Goodell of NFL just put out a statement trying to justify the total disrespect certain players show to our country.Tell them to stand!" Trump said Saturday.
He then tweeted Sunday, "If NFL fans refuse to go to games until players stop disrespecting our Flag & Country, you will see change take place fast. Fire or suspend!"
Trump continued, "...NFL attendance and ratings are WAY DOWN. Boring games yes, but many stay away because they love our country. League should back U.S."
In response to Trump's tweets, NFL players are showing their unity at Sundays games and on social media. Tom Brady posted a picture of himself with Patriots teammate James White on Instagram with the caption, "Strength. Passion. Love. Brotherhood. Team. Unity. Commitment. Dedication. Determination. Respect. Loyalty. Work. #nflplayer."
Journalist Mark Daniels also posted a photo of Brady locking arms with teammates during their game Sunday.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers also posted a photo on Instagram, showing himself and his teammates kneeling in conversation. "#unity #brotherhood #family #dedication #love," Rodgers captioned the picture, which Brady commented on with a flexed bicep emoji.
Other NFL teams like the Miami Dolphins are responding to Trump as well. The Miami Dolphins Twitter account posted a video showing players locking arms with the caption, "Unity."