Wrapping itself in the American flag, the NFL has put dissenting players back under its thumb.
League owners approved a new national anthem policy, voting Wednesday to force any player tempted to protest during “The Star-Spangled Banner” to make a difficult choice: Stand as the anthem is performed, with the threat of a team fine for any display of disrespect. Or refuse to join teammates on the field and remain behind in the locker room.
In the NFL, patriotism will now be measured by taking roll. What players are present for the anthem? And which malcontents are hiding in the stadium shadows?