Kenny Stills and 2 other Dolphins protest during national anthem

The Philadelphia Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins and De'Vante Bausby showed resistance to the ban before their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers by raising fists during the anthem, while their teammate Chris Long placed his hand on Jenkins' shoulder, according to Philadelphia-based sports reporter Les Bowen. Several other players joined the protest.

After withstanding two seasons of backlash against players kneeling, raising fists and displaying other means of protest during the anthem, the National Football League said it would fine teams with protesting players directly, who in turn would have it in their discretion to enforce pregame anthem observations in their own ways.

The NFL issued a statement Thursday night saying they will continue to play the anthem before games. "You guys know what's going on". I don't know if it's going to be every week, can't answer if it's going to be every week.

Jenkins met with Reverend Jesse Jackson when Jackson visited the team this week.

"But as a man I've got to stand for something". It was love. I hope people see it and respect it.

Franchise owners agreed on a policy earlier this year that requires players to stand for the Star-Spangled Banner if they are on the field. The Patriots observed a moment of silence beforehand for Weymouth, Massachusetts, police officer Michael Chesna, who was killed last month in the line of duty.

"Meanwhile, there has been no change in the NFL's policy regarding the national anthem". "In order to allow this constructive dialogue to continue, we have come to a standstill agreement on the NFLPA's grievance and on the NFL's anthem policy".

Further protests took place in Jacksonville, where four players for the Jaguars also stayed in the dressing room.

The section said fines or suspensions could potentially be handed out to players who kneel during the anthem.

"We remain committed to working with the players to identify solutions and to continue making progress on important social issue affecting our communities".