Elway, however, is not one to back down easily. In a follow-up interview with a local Denver news station, he doubled down on his stance. “I respect the right of every American to speak their mind,” Elway said. “But when you put on that Broncos uniform, you’re representing something bigger than yourself. You’re representing this team, this city, and this country. There’s a time and a place for everything, and the football field during the national anthem is not the place for political protests.”
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.”
