Jerry Jones Shifts Tone On Kneeling During Anthem

The owner of the Dallas Cowboys, Jerry Jones, has been one of the most outspoken opponents of players taking a knee during the national anthem. But as Jerry Jones said on Wednesday, that was then and this is now.

The NFL overall plans to make social justice a key theme of the 2020 season and it appears as though the Dallas Cowboys are no different. During his "State of the Team" address on Wednesday, Jerry Jones said that he has had discussions with current and former players, President Trump, a former United States President, and others on the issue of kneeling during the national anthem. In the past, Jones has been completely against Dallas Cowboys players taking a knee. According to WBAP in Dallas, Jones has now shifted his stance.

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.”

Jones on Wednesday also said that he was looking forward to playing games in front of fans but wouldn't say how many fans would be allowed inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington. As of today, Texas allows 50% capacity of stadiums. AT&T Stadium can seat 80,000 fans with standing room capacity over 100,000.