WASHINGTON (Dispatches) - Several NFL players who protested during the U.S. national anthem before pre-season games have been criticized by President Donald Trump.
Ex-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick was the first to protest in 2016 and some players raised a fist and others kneeled at three games on Thursday.
The NFL says plans to fine players for anthem protests have been put on hold.
"Find another way to protest, stand proudly for your national anthem or be suspended without pay," tweeted Trump.
"Numerous players, from different teams, wanted to show their 'outrage' at something that most of them are unable to define.
"Be happy, be cool! A football game, that fans are paying soooo much money to watch and enjoy, is no place to protest. Most of that money goes to the players anyway."
Players who refused to stand during The Star-Spangled Banner have said the protests were against police brutality of African Americans and racial inequality, and the demonstrations have previously been criticized by Trump.
On Thursday, Philadelphia Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins and De'Vante Bausby, San Francisco 49ers' Marquise Goodwin and Miami Dolphins' Robert Quinn raised a fist, while his team-mates Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson kneeled.