NEW YORK — NFL players and owners held an unusual meeting Tuesday to discuss social issues, a session both sides termed positive and productive.
What was not discussed at any length was the divisive topic of the national anthem that has caught the attention of President Donald Trump.
"We spent today talking about issues that the players are trying to bring attention to," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said. "That was the entire focus."
Asked if the players committed to standing during the anthem, Goodell responded: "We did not ask for that."
Trump criticized the NFL again Wednesday on Twitter, writing that "The NFL has decided that it will not force players to stand for the playing of our National Anthem.