ATLANTA — Week one of the 2018 NFL preseason is in full swing, and that means the return of the kneeling controversy.
Players continue to protest racial injustice by taking a knee during the national anthem.
But Friday morning, President Trump continued to mock players, issuing a series tweets saying they're "at it again" and encouraging them to "be happy, be cool and stand proudly!" or face suspension without pay.
The series of tweets came after members of the Miami Dolphins, including former Georgia State University wide receiver Albert Wilson, took a knee.
The movement was started by former San Francisco 49er quarterback Colin Kaepernick. While some see the protests as disrespectful to our nation, participating players say it has nothing to do with the flag. Rather it's a stand against racial injustice and police brutality.
Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcom Jenkins has been among the most vocal, and sat down with NBC's Lester Holt to explain why.
"We talk about breast cancer for a whole month, we wear pink on the field, we do dedications, we have the moms on the field before the game - no issues with that," Jenkins said. "We start talking about black issues of race and now all of a sudden, we want football. We don't want all the extra stuff."
Top league owners have threatened their players with fines and suspensions if they protest. Falcons owner Arthur Blank wants a clear policy, and said while it isn't encouraged, Falcons players wouldn't be fined for exercising their first amendment right.
The Falcons kick off their pre-season Aug. 10 in New York against the Jets, and the nation - and maybe the president - will be watching to see if the protests continue.
