Houston Texans’ owner Bob McNair crossed a line when he referred to NFL players as “inmates” during a meeting with the other 30 NFL owners.
While meeting with other NFL owners and executives, Houston Texans’ owner Bob McNair said, “we can’t have the inmates running the prison,” in response to players kneeling during the playing of the National Anthem, according to Bleacher Report.
My guess is that McNair didn’t think his racist comments would reach the public.
Well they did and he’s issued a statement apologizing.
Statement from Texans Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert C. McNair: pic.twitter.com/EXdwKZ4y4x
— Houston Texans PR (@TexansPR) October 27, 2017
I’m sure McNair regrets his comments because now he looks like a racist, whether he likes it or not. His comments are the reason why players are protesting during the anthem. Because there is clearly a divide in our country when it comes to social injustice and how minorities are treated.
Numerous athletes have reacted to McNair’s comments.
Golden State Warriors’ star Draymond Green posted his thoughts on Instagram.
Of course some NFL players spoke out on Twitter as well.
He gotta go https://t.co/hzpsCDe9wb
— Reggie Bush (@ReggieBush) October 27, 2017
Nahhh Bob McNair didn’t say that...nah y’all tripping. He couldn’t have. Nope he didn’t. Did that wake some of y’all up now?
— Billy (@snacks) October 27, 2017
I can appreciate ppl being candid. Don’t apologize! You meant what you said. Showing true colors allows ppl to see you for who you are.
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) October 27, 2017
My husband has put his BODY & MIND on the line for your team for 10 YRS & to you he is an “inmate”. You owe these players RESPECT & support https://t.co/RJWqgBb2NE
— Devi Brown (@DeviBrown) October 27, 2017
Whether as a Texans’ fan you agree with NFL players kneeling during the anthem or not, you should be concerned about how players from around the league will not perceive McNair. He could have a hard time luring big-time free agents to Houston.
The last thing an NFL player wants to do is play for someone that they believe is racist and doesn’t respect him.
If the NFL really wants to stop players from kneeling, they should have them remain in the locker room while the National Anthem is being performed.
What’s really scary is that McNair is likely not the only NFL owner to feel the way he does.
Next: Kareem Jackson on anthem protests: “We feel how we feel”
Comment below and give us your thoughts on what McNair had to say.