It appears as if the NFL changes its stance. In a statement released today by Roger Goodell on behalf of the NFL, the NFL has changed course regarding the issue of the kneeling of players.The "rule book" will now state that everyone on the field during the National Anthem will be standing and showing proper respect to the colors. Anyone who wishes to kneel or not participate must remain in the locker room until the ceremony has concluded.In a nation where there is no certainty to appease everyone, it seems as if this compromise does a decent job of doing just that. You are free to protest, but you won't be on the field doing it. We take that as the NFL saying that it isn't the time or place for such action, and you can stay in the locker room if you disagree.Clubs will be fined by the league for any players that violate the aforementioned rules regarding the National Anthem. Each NFL team can develop their own rules as long as they are in line and do not violate the above-mentioned rules. For habitual "offenders" the league commissioner will "impose appropriate discipline on league personnel who do not stand and show respect for the flag and the Anthem."(Source: NFL.com)The controversial actions of players have left many fans with a bad taste in their mouths. With the viewership and patronage dropping, the NFL eventually had to react somehow.[caption id="attachment_17661" align="alignnone" width="750"]

(09/24/2017- Foxboro, MA) New England Patriots in large numbers took a knee as defensive end Geneo Grissom stood tall with his hand on his heart at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, September 24, 2017. Staff Photo by Matt West[/caption]While this may not please everyone, this seems to be the only compromise that is going to occur. While it may not appease those who've wished for something sooner, the truth is that something now is actually being done.Is it too little too late? Or rather will this be a positive step for the NFL in repairing its image that was so badly damaged over the last two seasons, reaching a fever pitch this season? Time will only tell.Read more on the subject here:

NEW NFL RULES: SERIOUS PENALTIES TO TEAMS WHO TAKE A KNEE