What they didn't see is that ESPN, SJW, etc. would latch onto this and start running with it. Goodell knows it's a Charlie Foxtrot but now the wolves are roaming freely. Now he's going to double down and thinks having an “Activism Month” will allow the NFL to get control of the situation. Pfft. This combined with sympathetic players who believes America keeps them down and a fan base who are generally the exact opposite might be a real financial explosion waiting to happen, if the right/wrong person actually ignites it.
Couldn't happen to nicer bunch of guys.
The NFL chose to ignore their own rulebook.
The specific rule pertaining to the national anthem is found on pages A62-63 of the NFL League Rulebook. It states:
“The National Anthem must be played prior to every NFL game, and all players must be on the sideline for the National Anthem.
“During the National Anthem, players on the field and bench area should stand at attention, face the flag, hold helmets in their left hand, and refrain from talking. The home team should ensure that the American flag is in good condition...
...It should be pointed out to players and coaches that we continue to be judged by the public in this area of respect for the flag and our country. Failure to be on the field by the start of the National Anthem may result in discipline, such as fines, suspensions, and/or the forfeiture of draft choice(s) for violations of the above, including first offenses.”