Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross says he will in no way force his players to stand for the national anthem during the 2018-19 upcoming NFL season, even though he believes kneeling is an ineffective way to promote social justice.
“I have no intention of forcing our players to stand during the anthem and I regret that my comments have been misconstrued." Ross said in a Tuesday statement.
Ross' comments came after the New York Daily News reported he said all of the team's players will stand for the anthem.
Ross said he's passionate about social justice, but believes kneeling during the anthem is an ineffective tactic that alienates more people than it enlists.
"I care passionately that the message of social justice resonates far and wide and I will continue to support and fund efforts for those who fight for equality for all," said Ross.
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After defending his players for taking a knee during the national anthem, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross seems to want to approach the upcoming season in a different way.
Ross said that all players will be standing for the anthem during the 2018 season.
"Initially, I totally supported the players in what they were doing," Ross said in an interview with the New York Daily News. "It's America and people should be able to really speak about their choices."
Ross said his feelings changed when he felt the message of the kneeling became a protest of the country and the military, promoted by President Donald Trump.
“When that message changed, and everybody was interpreting it as that was the reason, then I was against kneeling," said Ross. "I like Donald (Trump). I don't support everything that he says. Overall, I think he was trying to make a point, and his message became what kneeling was all about. From that standpoint, that is the way the public is interpreting it.”
"Miami is a great city. It's not a great sports town," said Ross.
"(The Marlins) haven't been winning. (Jeter) has to start all over again. I think you have to be patient and give him the time it's going to take to build a winner. He's a very smart, capable guy. He was a great baseball player. Hopefully he'll be a great executive. The best way to get a fan base is to win. Winning solves all solutions."