NFL won't enforce new anthem policy as league, NFLPA work on resolution

With more controversy surrounding the national anthem and the NFL in recent days, the NFL and NFL Players Association seem even more determined to find a solution.

The NFL and NFLPA released a joint statement on Thursday night announcing that both sides have had recent discussions over the issue, and that they are actively working on finding a resolution. They also announced that there will be no new rules issued relating to the national anthem, and that none will be enforced over the “next several weeks” while they continue to have “confidential discussions.”

“The NFL and NFLPA, through recent discussions, have been working on a resolution to the anthem issue,” the NFL and NFLPA said in a statement on Thursday. “In order to allow this constructive dialogue to continue, we have come to a standstill agreement on the NFLPA’s grievance and on the NFL’s anthem policy. No new rules relating to the anthem will be issued or enforced for the next several weeks while these confidential discussions are ongoing.

“The NFL and NFLPA reflect the great values of America, which are repeatedly demonstrated by the many players doing extraordinary work in communities across our country to promote equality, fairness and justice.

“Our shared focus will remain on finding a solution to the anthem issue through mutual, good faith commitments, outside of litigation.”

The news comes just hours after news broke that the Miami Dolphins are planning on punishing players further should they kneel or protest during the national anthem. A team discipline document now includes a section on “Proper Anthem Conduct,” and says that punishment for players in violation could be suspended for up to four games.

Tennessee Titans defensive lineman Jurrell Casey also said this week that he still plans to protest during the national anthem this season, and will accept any fines or penalties that the NFL issues. That, though, caused issue for Titans president and CEO Steve Underwood, as he doesn’t think that Casey understands the NFL’s new rules about protesting.

The NFLPA officially filed a grievance earlier this month over the NFL’s new anthem policy, which states that players must either stand on the sideline during the anthem or stay in the locker room.

More from Yahoo Sports:
• Why trade to San Antonio stings DeMar DeRozan so much
• Titans DT plans to protest anthem: ‘I’m going to take my fine’
• WWE’s ‘New Day’ releases powerful response to Hulk Hogan’s reinstatement
• Larry Nassar survivors receive Arthur Ashe Courage Award at ESPYs