Aren’t they just trying to avoid the issue? Seems like no one can kneel if they’re not on the field and it’s not disrespectful to sit it out. I don’t think they’re doing it in protest but should make it clear if not.
The ultimate goal is to stop playing the anthem, period.
And they have just about achieved that.
Once that happens, it will be up to the fans to spontaneously sing the anthem.
That would be a beautiful thing to see.