Green Bay Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy on Saturday became the latest football executive to respond to President Trump’s criticism of NFL players who kneel during the national anthem, calling the president’s remarks “divisive.”
“It’s unfortunate that the President decided to use his immense platform to make divisive and offensive statements about our players and the NFL,” Murphy said in a statement. “We strongly believe that players are leaders in our communities and positive influences. They have achieved their positions through tremendous work and dedication and should be celebrated for their success and positive impact.”
“We believe it is important to support any of our players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for good. As Americans, we are fortunate to be able to speak openly and freely.”{mosads}
Trump blasted athletes who protest the national anthem during football games during a fiery campaign rally on Friday, saying that NFL coaches should fire players that do so.
“Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, ‘Get that son of a b—- off the field right now. He is fired,'” he said.
Trump doubled down on his criticism on Saturday, writing in a tweet that players that take knee in protest of the anthem should be fired from the NFL and “find something else to do.”