Started by Colin Kaepernick last season, it has become common for NFL players to take a knee during the playing of the national anthem in protest of police brutality and social injustice in the United States.
"I absolutely think the protests are so upsetting, and I blame the commissioner," Walker said, according to the New York Post. "I know people are going to be angry when I say it, but he should have stopped the protests at the very beginning."
"Guys, let me tell you this," Walker continued. "Our flag is very special, and black lives matter, but what we should do is go to Washington after the season and protest there instead. We have young men and women fighting for the flag. And we have to respect the White House."
>> Related: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants players to stand during national anthem, memo says
While this is the first time Walker has publicly blamed the commissioner, it isn't the first time Walker has expressed his opinion that NFL players should not protest during the playing of the national anthem.
Above all else, Walker said in an interview with TMZ in September that players are at work during the games and should treat their jobs and bosses with respect.
“Everyone needs to stand. Everyone needs to be respectful,” Walker told TMZ. “And then what I’d do (if I were commissioner) is (say), ‘Guys, during the offseason, if you want to go walk the picket line in front of Congress, I will be right there with you.’”
President Donald Trump has continually voiced his opinion that the NFL should implement a rule demanding players stand during the playing of the national anthem.
>> Related: Do students have to stand for the Pledge, anthem?
Goodell is reported to have a contract extension finalized in the coming weeks that will be worth $40 million a year through 2023.
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