The NFL's new national anthem policy has been put on hold.
The NFL and the players union issued a joint statement Thursday night saying the two sides are talking things out.
The announcement:
"The NFL and NFLPA, through recent discussions, have been working on a resolution to the anthem issue. In order to allow this constructive dialogue to continue, we have come to a standstill agreement on the NFLPA's grievance and on the NFL's anthem policy. No new rules relating to the anthem will be issued or enforced for the next several weeks while these confidential discussions are ongoing," the statement read. "The NFL and NFLPA reflect the great values of America, which are repeatedly demonstrated by the many players doing extraordinary work in communities across our country to promote equality, fairness and justice. Our shared focus will remain on finding a solution to the anthem issue through mutual, good faith commitments, outside of litigation."
That announcement came just hours after the Miami Dolphins issued a team policy that stated players who protest on the field during the anthem could be suspended for up to four games.
The Dolphins said in a statement:
"The NFL required each team to submit their rules regarding the anthem before their players reported to training camp. We will address this issue once the season starts. All options are still open."
An NFL rule passed in May forbid players from sitting or taking a knee if they are on the field or sidelines during "The Star-Spangled Banner," but allowed them to stay in the locker room if they wish.
The policy said teams would be fined if players didn't stand during the anthem while on the field. The league left it up to teams on how to punish players.
The issue has dominated headlines over the past two seasons, caused division and alienated some fans.