Unsurprisingly, the reaction among Broncos players has been mixed. While some players have expressed their support for Elway’s position, others have voiced their concerns privately. “It’s a tough spot to be in,” said one anonymous player. “I love playing for Coach Elway, but I also feel strongly about the issues that we’re trying to bring attention to. I don’t know what I’m going to do.”

Another player, who also asked to remain anonymous, was more blunt in his assessment. “It’s not right to tell us we can’t stand up—or kneel down—for what we believe in. That’s not what America is about.”

One player who has publicly supported Elway’s stance is veteran linebacker Von Miller. In a recent interview, Miller praised Elway for his leadership and called on his teammates to respect the anthem. “I’m all for fighting for what’s right, but we have to do it in the right way,” Miller said. “Coach Elway’s just trying to keep us focused on football. We can make a difference off the field too.”

Elway’s policy has reignited the national debate over the intersection of sports and politics. On one side are those who believe that athletes should use their platforms to speak out on social issues, while others argue that sports should remain a refuge from the divisive politics of the day.

Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson praised Elway’s stance, calling it “a breath of fresh air” in a league that has “lost its way.” “John Elway is standing up for what so many Americans believe,” Carlson said on his show. “That the flag and the anthem are sacred, and they should be treated as such.”

On the other hand, CNN’s Don Lemon blasted Elway’s decision as “tone-deaf and out of touch.” “Elway is trying to take us back to a time when athletes were expected to just shut up and play,” Lemon said. “But those days are over. Athletes have a right to speak out, and they shouldn’t be punished for it.”