Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones today spoke to the media for the first time since the NFL Draft in April, and acknowledged that he "hasn’t decided how the team will handle players during the national anthem." He said, "Everybody understands where I stand with the flag. Everybody also understands where I stand on backing our players.” Jones, who has previously said that Cowboys players "wouldn’t be allowed to kneel," today "used the word 'grace' numerous times to describe how he plans to handle the anthem situation" (FOX4NEWS.com, 8/12). Jones added, "I’ve had input from presidents. I’ve had input from a cross section of our players, former players, and I will continue to have input. This is a very serious matter. We’ve asked for the platform. We have the platform. We’re going to show grace" (PROFOOTBALLTALK.com, 8/12).
FANS IN THE STANDS: Jones' other major message is that the Cowboys are "gearing up for fans at AT&T Stadium during the 2020 season." He said he is "completely confident ... that our fans can come and have a safe experience at our stadium along with of course our players. ... We'll adhere to all protocols and we will adapt to the uniqueness of our stadium." When asked about a specific number of fans attending, Jones said, "I don't have an expectation" (NFL.com, 8/12). See the full press conference on the Cowboys' website.
TWITTER REAX: Dallas Morning News' Tim Cowlishaw: "I thought Jerry Jones had a good answer on the long-awaited question about social justice, the flag, etc. I’m guessing I’m in the minority there." Ft. Worth Star-Telegram's Clarence Hill Jr.: "What does grace mean to Jerry Jones. Is going to give the players grace and allow them to kneel. Is he asking for grace as he tries to both sides his decision. It's not about being polite and kind anymore. It's about doing what's right." Dallas Morning News' Calvin Watkins: "Jerry Jones said he has nothing to prove to his players or anybody else because he's supported them on various issues. Jones admits these are sensitive times. He will act with grace when it comes to kneeling during the anthem."
