National anthem protests returned to the NFL Thursday, as two Miami Dolphins players took a knee and one of their teammates raised a fist during “The Star Spangled Banner” ahead of the team’s preseason opener.
Wide receivers Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson both kneeled while defensive end Robert Quinn raised his fist before the Fins took on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
The Giants opened their preseason at home against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, and Big Blue defensive lineman A.J. Francis raised his fist at the end of the anthem, NJ.com reported.
In Philadelphia, where the world champs played the Pittsburgh Steelers, Eagles captain and safety Malcolm Jenkins and cornerback De’Vante Bausby raised their fists during the anthem.
And in Santa Clara, Calif., 49ers wide receiver Marquise Goodwin raised his fist as “The Star-Spangled Banner” played.
Earlier this summer, the NFL ordered players to stay in the locker room if they intended to kneel for the anthem. The league has been under pressure from President Trump and his followers to take action against players who take a knee in a silent protest against racism.
But after backlash from players, the league and union agreed to freeze that policy and continue talks.
The NFL’s preseason kicked off last week with the Chicago Bears and Baltimore Ravens playing in the annual Hall of Fame Game. No player took a knee at that game.
Thursday marked the first full slate of exhibition games.
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