#Baker Mayfield defends decision to kneel during national anthem

Baker Mayfield isn’t shying away from his decision to take a knee this fall.

The Browns quarterback previously said he “absolutely” planned to kneel during the national anthem this season to support protests of racism, social injustice and police brutality. Friday, he said he had no regrets about his decision and offered a suggestion to those who may be criticizing him for it.

“Right is right, and wrong is wrong,” Mayfield told reporters. “There is a human rights issue that has been going on for a long time, and I believe in that. It is nothing against military or anybody who served. Anybody that knows my history knows that I completely support military and the people that serve our country for the right reasons and do it for justice.

“The people that do not know that, that is OK – just take your time and take a second to get to know me. It is a human rights issue. There is right, and there is wrong.”

Mayfield likely won’t be alone in his decision this fall. Already, as sports have come back after the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, both at the hands of police, players in the NBA, NHL, MLB and MLS have knelt during the national anthem before games.

Within his own locker room, the 25-year-old Mayfield has gotten support from his teammates, as wide receiver Jarvis Landry texted him “much respect,” when he first announced his decision.

“Hopefully everyone in the world recognizes the problem,’’ Landry told reporters. “As professional athletes, we recognize our platform and the need to raise awareness.‘’