White House

Trump again blasts NFL over players kneeling during national anthem

The Cleveland Browns team stand and kneel during the National Anthem before the start of their game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium, September 24, 2017.
Thomas J. Russo | USA TODAY Sports | Reuters

President Donald Trump is again criticizing the NFL over players kneeling during the national anthem.

Trump said on Twitter Wednesday that the "NFL has decided that it will not force players to stand for the playing of our National Anthem."

He adds: "Total disrespect for our great country!"

Trump tweet

Trump appeared to be responding to the NFL annual fall meeting. The league invited players and representatives from their union to discuss social issues.

The topic of the national anthem was not discussed at length. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said owners did not ask players to commit to standing during the anthem.

Trump has suggested the owners should "fire" any players who knelt during the "Star Spangled Banner."

In response to Trump's tweet, retired NFL coach and football commentator Tony Dungy suggested Trump "ought to invite some of these young men to the White House to hear their concerns."

Tony Dungy tweet