The NFL's controversial national anthem policy, which was announced in May, is temporarily on hold as the league works with the NFL Players Association to find a resolution to the issue. The NFLPA filed a grievance on July 10 stating that the league's policy infringes on player rights.
San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman is on the executive committee for the player's union. The veteran shared an update on Wednesday surrounding the discussions between the NFL and the NFLPA.
"We just talked about it," Sherman said. "We just had a conversation about it yesterday, and they're open for discussion. There hasn't been a discussion about it. We've started to get suggestions from players, and the league has been very open to hearing those suggestions. They've been very amicable in our discussions about potentially making adjustments to that policy.
"Some thought [the policy] was short-sighted, but they felt like they had to get something out and I think they should be commended for being open to hearing what the players have to say about it and moving in that way."
The NFL's original policy requires team personnel and players to stand during the pre-game tradition. Those who do not wish to do so have the option to remain in the team's locker room or a similar location off the field until the anthem is complete. Failure to comply could result in a fine against the team with personnel or players facing potential discipline from the league.
NFL teams, however, have the right to determine their own internal anthem policy and decide whether or not to discipline a player who chooses to protest.