NFL Players' Union Files Grievance Over Anthem Policy

The NFL Players Association has filed a grievance with the football league over its national anthem policy, USA Today reports. The policy, passed in May after the kneeling controversy, requires players to stand during the anthem or stay in the locker room. In a statement, the NFLPA says it was not consulted on the policy and that the policy "is inconsistent with the collective bargaining agreement and infringes on player rights." The union says that the NFL has agreed to hold confidential discussions with the NFLPA Executive Committee "to find a solution to this issue instead of immediately proceeding with litigation," and that those talks will begin soon. CBS Sports notes that the NFLPA raised similar concerns after the policy was issued, and had promised to review and challenge it if necessary. (More NFL stories.)