“If there’s anything that is disrespectful to the flag, then we will not play,” Jerry Jones said after Sunday’s loss to the Green Bay Packers. “Understand? We will not … if we are disrespecting the flag, then we will not play. Period.”
Jones said this just one week after he orchestrated a pre-anthem show of solidarity with his players, kneeling while locking arm-in-arm. Turns out, this was likely a contrived act, as Jones was seen flagging down a cameraman to make sure he was the center of attention.
Now, the Cowboys’ owner is reportedly irritating his players by taking such a hardline stance, with reports claiming that Jones is even dictating how the players hold their hands and helmets, and even where they should be looking during the anthem.
Jones held a meeting with players and coaches on Wednesday and his reasoning for his recent actions was head-scratching.
According to ESPN,
[Jerry Jones] said his stance on the national anthem protests was rooted in a desire to play the bad guy and deflect attention from the players, according to a source.
In the meeting, Jones sought to ensure that players also saw the bigger picture regarding the business side of the situation, including concerns over TV ratings and sponsors, the source said.
Jones also reportedly offered the players a chance to speak with him one-on-one.
Rest assured, people. Jerry Jones has his hands all over this situation.
[h/t ESPN]