Jerry Jones on Kneeling During Anthem: “That was Then and This is Now”

FRISCO (WBAP/KLIF) – Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones addressed the coronavirus pandemic and the continued outcry of social injustice across the country during his annual “State of the Team” address on Wednesday.

While many college football programs have recently opted to cancel their fall football seasons over concerns surrounding the continued spread of COVID-19, Jones remained optimistic about the upcoming NFL season.

“We’ve got some adjustments to make,” said Jones. “We’re going to make them with enthusiasm and we’re going to make them with can-do. The Dallas Cowboys plan on playing all of our football games and we plan on playing them in front of our fans.”

Jones ensured fans that safety protocols surrounding COVID-19 would be in place at AT&T Stadium but wouldn’t speculate on how many fans will be in attendance. He said it’s too soon to make decisions on capacity. In Texas, sports venues can legally be open up to 50% capacity.

Jones was asked about his position on players kneeling during the national anthem amid the current call for the end to social injustices. He said he’s focused on showing his players “grace.”

“And I’m going to have grace regarding the people that are sensitive about our flag,” said Jones. “Somewhere in between there, as we get together with our team and discuss with our team, is how we’re going to handle it.”

Previously Jones had said he would not tolerate his team kneeling during the anthem, as other players in the league did to bring attention to social injustice. But according to the Owner, that was two years ago.

“That was then; two years ago,” said Jones. “This is now.”

He emphasized that he has “nothing to prove” regarding his position on the flag, nor his support of his players.

Listen to Clayton Neville’s story below:

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