NFL borrows playbook from BLM

Patrick Mahomes, Deshaun Watson lead joint demonstration prior to kickoff, players react to alleged 'boos', as they take themselves way too seriously

Mahomes and Watson led Chiefs and Texans players locking arms in unison

 

By Jeff Kerr

 

 & Jordan Dajani

 

11 hrs ago1 min read

NFL/NBC

The 2020 NFL season has officially begun, but the game certainly a different feel to it amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Arrowhead Stadium

wasn't at full capacity as the Kansas City Chiefs unveiled their championship banner and a live version of the national anthem was not played inside the stadium. However, a prerecorded version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" was played on the video board as players performed several demonstrations during the national anthem, locking arms at the sideline in a moment of unison. The Houston Texans did not take the field during the anthem, opting to stay in the locker room.

Alex Okafor took a knee and raised his fist in the air as two Chiefs players put their hands on his shoulders, showing solidarity. The NFL showcased the anthem during the game broadcast and posted it to their social media account shortly after.