CLEVELAND (AP) — More than a dozen Cleveland Browns players kneeled during the playing of the national anthem before Monday night’s 16-0 preseason victory over the New York Giants.
The group, which included veterans, rookies, starters and backups, gathered in front of some water coolers and behind their teammates who stood on the sideline.
The protest was the largest so far in a movement started last season by quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who is currently out of the NFL. In recent days, Seattle defensive lineman Michael Bennett and Philadelphia defensive back Malcolm Jenkins also have called attention to what they feel is racial injustice in the country.
Oakland running back Marshawn Lynch also has sat during the national anthem in the preseason, but hasn’t elaborated on his reasoning.
Giants star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. sustained a lower left leg injury in the first half of the game.
Beckham was struck immediately after catching a pass by cornerback Briean Boddy-Calhoun, who lowered his shoulder and took out the wide receiver’s legs. Beckham took exception to the hit and glared at Boddy-Calhoun as he left the field.
The Giants said he has a sprained ankle but will undergo further tests.