Unlike last week’s game at Tennessee, the Seahawks took the field as usual for the playing of the anthem.
But nine Seahawks defenders sat as the song was played — all eight of the team’s defensive line as well as linebacker Michael Wilhoite.
The eight defensive linemen who sat were Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, Frank Clark, Jarran Reed, Sheldon Richardson, Garrison Smith, Marcus Smith and Nazair Jones. Wilhoite joined the. Center Justin Britt and guard Oday Aboushi stood next to them with Britt’s hand on Avril’s back. Receiver Doug Baldwin also walked over right before the song and shook hands with those sitting.