Drew Brees - Part 2

[ColdNoMore]

In the previous thread, the moderator rightfully stated...
This thread has strayed very far from the original topic. The bulk of the latest posts are more appropriate for other ongoing threads. This thread is closed.



In that vein, and following the moderator's reasonable request, let's address Drew's latest comment...made on Friday night.

While I've never really personally been a Brees fan, although I certainly respect his legacy as a top tier quarterback, I will always have the utmost respect for anyone who is willing to apologize for their remarks when they are wrong and then in the face of massive opposing pressure (and a very real possibility of adverse financial impacts)...stand up for honesty, integrity, ethics...and wanting to do the right thing.

It takes a lot of honesty/integrity/ethics & guts and courage...to do what Drew Brees has done.:thumbup:


“Through my ongoing conversations with friends, teammates, and leaders in the black community, I realize this is not an issue about the American flag.

It has never been,” Brees wrote.

“We can no longer use the flag to turn people away or distract them from the real issues that face our black communities.

“We did this back in 2017, and regretfully I brought it back with my comments this week. We must stop talking about the flag and shift our attention to the real issues of systemic racial injustice, economic oppression, police brutality, and judicial & prison reform.

“We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history! If not now, then when?

“We as a white community need to listen and learn from the pain and suffering of our black communities. We must acknowledge the problems, identify the solutions, and then put this into action. The black community cannot do it alone. This will require all of us.”

So please stay on topic this time.

Thank you. :ho:

[JimJohnson]

His apology was appropriate. He rightly recognized that kneeling during the anthem was not disrespectful. I served Proudly for 22 years In the US Army and totally support Kaepernick in his protest. It is hard for some to see the good that comes from peaceful protest. No one is more proud of the American flag than I am and I am overjoyed if using the flag or the national anthem to bring attention to the horrible problem of police brutality helps. We all should take a knee against any form of discrimination.

[ColdNoMore]

His apology was appropriate. He rightly recognized that kneeling during the anthem was not disrespectful. I served Proudly for 22 years In the US Army and totally support Kaepernick in his protest. It is hard for some to see the good that comes from peaceful protest. No one is more proud of the American flag than I am and I am overjoyed if using the flag or the national anthem to bring attention to the horrible problem of police brutality helps. We all should take a knee against any form of discrimination.

If only more people had been smart enough (less prejudiced?) to concentrate on the REAL issue for the kneeling, instead of seeing it as an opportunity to deflect and attack another black person who was speaking out against injustice...we might not be where we are right now. :ohdear:

[JimJohnson]

If only more people had been smart enough (less prejudiced?) to concentrate on the REAL issue for the kneeling, instead of seeing it as an opportunity to deflect and attack another black person who was speaking out against injustice...we might not be where we are right now. :ohdear:

I know, but unfortunately there are some that use confusion for wrong doing.

[Klatu]

DB was speaking from the heart as he thought of his relatives and their fighting for a country that CK was disrespecting with his protest and his anti-police sentiment. He changed direction because like a lot of people, the heat he received caused him to try to make amends. Of course, no matter how you change what you say/believe in order to satisfy the PC/woke mob, you cannot appease them enough, ever. Patriotism and pride of country are not values of the left. But they are to a whole lot of people.

[Stu from NYC]

IMHO lots of ways to protest but kneeling facing the flag is not the way to protest.

[Two Bills]

Sounds to me he has a very good lawyer/agent who is highly qualified in damage limitation.
To my mind you do not do 180 degree turns on opinions expressed, unless you are under outside pressure, or threat.
In which case Mr. Brees is not showing honesty, integrity, and ethics, but just cynically protecting his assets and image.

[Klatu]

Sounds to me he has a very good lawyer/agent who is highly qualified in damage limitation.
To my mind you do not do 180 degree turns on opinions expressed, unless you are under outside pressure, or threat.
In which case Mr. Brees is not showing honesty, integrity, and ethics, but just cynically protecting his assets and image.

More than likely. He was reminded, by someone, that his team is affected by his comments. "Let's not handicap our team before the season even starts, Drew. Some of your team mates will be upset, also some of the sponsors (who themselves are afraid) and some of the lefty loons who will urge boycotts, et. Do something, Drew."

We might want to fault him for changing direction but I understand. He was not hired to take principled stands; he was hired because he is terrific qb. And which of us might not buckle if our livelihood, our future, our friendships and our family were not in jeopardy from the mob?

[GoodLife]

Since we are rehashing an old thread, do we need to go over the math again for these numbers?

84490

I wonder if Drew has seen these stats.

I've changed my mind, I don't think Drew made the apology to protect his sponsorships.

He did it for self preservation. When you have 300 pound guys coming that want to tear your head off, you want to be sure your 300 pound blockers are well motivated.

[Stu from NYC]

Since we are rehashing an old thread, do we need to go over the math again for these numbers?

84490

I wonder if Drew has seen these stats.

I've changed my mind, I don't think Drew made the apology to protect his sponsorships.

He did it for self preservation. When you have 300 pound guys coming that want to tear your head off, you want to be sure your 300 pound blockers are well motivated.

Good point self protection is rather important.

[ColdNoMore]

Sounds to me he has a very good lawyer/agent who is highly qualified in damage limitation.
To my mind you do not do 180 degree turns on opinions expressed, unless you are under outside pressure, or threat.
In which case Mr. Brees is not showing honesty, integrity, and ethics, but just cynically protecting his assets and image.

More than likely. He was reminded, by someone, that his team is affected by his comments. "Let's not handicap our team before the season even starts, Drew. Some of your team mates will be upset, also some of the sponsors (who themselves are afraid) and some of the lefty loons who will urge boycotts, et. Do something, Drew."

We might want to fault him for changing direction but I understand. He was not hired to take principled stands; he was hired because he is terrific qb. And which of us might not buckle if our livelihood, our future, our friendships and our family were not in jeopardy from the mob?

Correct me if I'm wrong, but what I'm hearing is that only primarily some type of "outside financial/other personal pressure"...can influence someone to change their minds?

NOT a reevaluation of one's personal viewpoint, brought about by truly listening to other viewpoints...and being big enough to admit that your original viewpoint wasn't correct? :oops:

IMHO, it's akin to the same philosophy of "never admit to being wrong or of having an honest change of heart, because it's a sign of weakness" and is the main reason...we have so many problems right now (and historically).

Newsflash, 'intractability' and being unwilling to have the courage to admit when one is wrong, or not being willing to even listen and evaluate other people's valid positions, particularly when it's done in the face of so much peer/financial pressure to stick with your original position...IS NOT an admirable personal trait.

In fact, being THAT way is what truly shows and exposes a...real weakness of character.

Kap was willing to lose it all, standing (or kneeling as it were)...because he felt so strongly about it.

How many others of you out there, have that kind of inner strength and conviction...in taking a stand against injustice or inequality?

I guess that is basically a rhetorical question, if you're not one of those with a strong base of honor/ethics/integrity and who knows that they will never have to worry about being on the ugly end...of that injustice and inequality. :ohdear:

[camaguey48]

Mr. Quarterback should have kept his mouth closed. Now that there was backlash, he lost his spine and acquiesced to the pc mob.
Mr. Quarterback has been sacked for a loss. His blockers would somehow miss a block and his receivers would somehow drop passes.

[Bay Kid]

This is why I record all sports. I fast forward the antics and try to enjoy the game.

[coalminer]

A. Real man, a good man, will take responsibility and apologize for his mistakes. That's what Brees did. Very refreshing.

[Reggie2383]

It is a pretty sad day when someone has to apologize for stating he loves his country in order to appease a mob. If this protest is not about the flag then why take a knee in front of the flag and the anthem?I think he was spineless and he should have kept his mouth shut in the first place.
As for Kap , he had no business making his debut about social justice by using NFL airtime. He caused more damage and divide then not. How about this. If he is so brave and believes in his cause so much, how about taking the some to spend some of the large amount of money he earns and go back to the communities he professes to care so much about and start doing real ground work. Help to better those by bringing a role model whose ethic is hard work and self worth. He could pay these kids to clean up their communities for starters. There’s lot of good he do but the has get off his knees first.

[ColdNoMore]

A. Real man, a good man, will take responsibility and apologize for his mistakes. That's what Brees did. Very refreshing.

Exactly.

I think it's a real tragedy and a huge stain on this country that so many refuse to understand, or don't have the spine to follow...this basic principle of decency. :ohdear:


.

[Viperguy]

This is why I stopped watching NFL.

[michtofla]

If you take a knee during the National Anthem you surely don’t respect the flag or all the men who died for this country. Shame on you!

[Stu from NYC]

If you take a knee during the National Anthem you surely don’t respect the flag or all the men who died for this country. Shame on you!

exactly

[ColdNoMore]

If you take a knee during the National Anthem you surely don’t respect the flag or all the men who died for this country. Shame on you!

Which also applies to all those who sit in their easy chair drinking a beer, when the anthem and flag...are shown on television?

Consistency, is the mortal enemy of...hypocrisy. :ho:

[La lamy]

This is not directly regarding Brees' comments, but I think Kaepernick, and every oppressed person, has a right to protest, just not at their workplace. Sports should be free of politics as far as I'm concerned.

[USA2170]

I completely agree with you, NFL damage control was in complete control with his so called apology.....just covered his ass

[ColdNoMore]

This is not directly regarding Brees' comments, but I think Kaepernick, and every oppressed person, has a right to protest, just not at their workplace. Sports should be free of politics as far as I'm concerned.

Does that include politicians...who attack the athletes?

Or do you feel this should be a one-way street and the athletes (or other celebrities)...just don't get to speak out?

[Byte1]

The left believes that Drew apologized because he "saw the error of is statement." Sorry if I am not so easily convinced. I accept his apology, but I also suspect he still believes what he originally stated and just had to apologize for the sake of his career and pressure that was put on him for being honest. I agree with what he said originally, even though he is just another voice along with many others. His being an athlete and making a statement goes a long way in the media, but he is still just one voice. I respect both his first statement and the fact that he was forced to make an apology.
CK is an opportunist, using his color to further his career that was sagging and in jeopardy of his being cut loose. He was being benched and he didn't like it. He saw an opportunity to use/USE a racial divide in this country for his own benefit. I know some will/want to disagree with his motives, but if you follow his actions closely you will see it proved out. If one wishes to express their belief that the police are racially biased and that minorities are down trodden by law enforcement, there are many better ways to express this without dividing and insulting many Americans. The National Anthem and the Flag is not a means to gather support, other than those that enjoy radical animosity and the opportunity to become militant with any controversial excuse. Although I believe that sports should not be political, if one wishes to express his/her opinion or support for an issue, they could wear attire (if allowed) expressing their view, or they could take their knee if when there is a goal made, etc. Flaunting their disrespect for patriotism does not garner the support of veterans or those that have lost family or friends during their service to their country. Liberals enjoy twisting the circumstances and also like to use rationalization and justification such as "well some folks wear flags on their clothes" and " do you stand for the National Anthem at home?" What's the expression, straw man?
My view of this matter is not racist, it's patriotic. I am just as disturbed by white athletes taking a knee as I am CK. In my opinion, it is disrespectful to our country AND to all those that have served. I am a strong believer in law enforcement and honor them when ever possible. There are a few bad folks in EVERY occupation. Athletes that bet for or against their team or shave points, crooked doctors, crooked politicians that take bribes, military members that use excessive force on civilians, Inside stock market trading, etc. This was a selfish, elitist athlete that saw his career coming to an end and desperately used what he knew was the "race card" to ensure that he would not be either benched, traded or just cut loose.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion and this is mine. Drew had to apologize for his career; I don't. In my opinion, President Trump should not have stated his opinion in public because he just gave credence to CK's behavior. If he would have ignored it, then we would not be having this conversation today. CK would be less than a memory to most folks. CK who?
Athletes should shut up and just play the game and everyone will be happier. Some undo the fruits of their position by delving into political statements and movements.

[Miguel 1952]

If you take a knee during the National Anthem you surely don’t respect the flag or all the men who died for this country. Shame on you!

If you can't respect the flag, National Anthem, our conversation can't even start. Period! 🇺🇸

[Swoop]

Drew is no rookie. He was in the league when Kap took a knee This isn’t something new to him that he hadn’t been exposed to. He didn’t blurt out his response, it was well thought out. So when he was attacked by the media for not supporting their false narrative of disproportionate police brutality against blacks - he gave them what they wanted to hear.

[fdpaq0580]

Which also applies to all those who sit in their easy chair drinking a beer, when the anthem and flag...are shown on television?

Consistency, is the mortal enemy of...hypocrisy. :ho:

No, it doesn't. Did you or any in support of his taking a knee also "take a knee" at home every time you saw him take a knee every time it was shown on tv? I doubt it. It is silly to think you/they would. It would demonstrate nothing.
It is also, imho, a mistake to think that everyone who feels that taking a knee was inappropriate at that time and place does not agree that there is racial bias in our country.
I, for one, understand him wanting to make a statement that racial bias is a problem, it is, but I believe using a form believed to show disrespect for, in this case, flag and country and all those of all races who served, fought and died for this country did more harm than good.
Many people, all on the same in this issue, had many different interpretations of what they saw. His intended message was lost. And rather than bring people together, it divided them.

[LG999]

Is the anthem being played at a football game the best place to express a personal feeling/opinion?

[billethkid]

Is the anthem being played at a football game the best place to express a personal feeling/opinion?

NO!

But it is where the cameras are!!

[stan the man]

Stop playing the National Anthem at all sporting events except the Olympics where you are representing your country

[Marvic 1]

Since we are rehashing an old thread, do we need to go over the math again for these numbers?

84490
I've notice that the person that call these statistics "Fake News" has not even tried to apologize or even come up with better numbers on his defense (totally Ignoring the truth).... :popcorn:

.......... - ALL Lives Matter -

[gatorbill1]

A. Real man, a good man, will take responsibility and apologize for his mistakes. That's what Brees did. Very refreshing.

Agree totally - insecure men never make mistakes or apologize

[RichS$]

Just eliminate the flag demonstration and anthem before all professional games. Government has to pay the NFL for the show. Why bother?

[ColdNoMore]

So, you feel that "politicians" should not speak about "politics?"

Like I said in another post, President Trump should not have said anything about CK and it would have gone away. I agree with the President, but also have seen how the weak have exploited his comments to fit their failed narrative. Better left alone to die off from lack of interest.

You need to go back and read the ENTIRE post. :oops:

It's #23...just to save you some time. :ho:

[Byte1]

Agree totally - insecure men never make mistakes or apologize

Interesting thought.

On the other hand, a person secure in their view should NOT be forced to change his stance based on the whim of the public, or money flow. Perhaps, it is better to just not make a public statement to begin with, and then no retractions or retreating from personal views will be necessary.

Some have taken satisfaction from his faux apology, but if they are that easily fooled then I am amused and satisfied that they are content.

Bree said he was sorry and the left rejoiced. Biden said he was sorry for all his racial blunders, damage and sexual predatory antics while in politics.....and everybody rejoiced and will award him with their votes. Both will be amused at how easy some are. :bigbow:

[ColdNoMore]

Agree totally - insecure men never make mistakes or apologize

YEP...:boom:

[Scorpyo]

[QUOTE=ColdNoMore;1779326]In the previous thread, the moderator rightfully stated...




In that vein, and following the moderator's reasonable request, let's address Drew's latest comment...[SIZE="4"]made on Friday night.

I have the utmost respect for anyone who is willing to apologize for their remarks when they are wrong

It is your opinion that he was wrong. It is my opinion that he was right. So who is right? The majority of football fans did not appreciate Colin's actions. That's why the league instituted rules against it. So, is the majority wrong? Now under pressure from the vocal minority (squeaky wheel gets the oil) they are changing their position. Just like Drew did. So don't say he was wrong because it fits your narrative, I would suggest you simply say he succumbed to the pressure and in your opinion that was the right thing to do. If you are both smart and married, I'm sure you have been "right" a few times but decided it was prudent to acquiesce.

[ColdNoMore]

It is your opinion that he was wrong. It is my opinion that he was right. So who is right? The majority of football fans did not appreciate Colin's actions. That's why the league instituted rules against it. So, is the majority wrong? Now under pressure from the vocal minority (squeaky wheel gets the oil) they are changing their position. Just like Drew did. So don't say he was wrong because it fits your narrative, I would suggest you simply say he succumbed to the pressure and in your opinion that was the right thing to do. If you are both smart and married, I'm sure you have been "right" a few times but decided it was prudent to acquiesce.

So what you're saying, is that decent people cannot change their mind or have a change of heart based on listening to additional viewpoints...or they're considered to be "succumbing/caving?" :oops:

That goes right along with..."insecure men never make mistakes or apologize." :ohdear:

[GoodLife]

That goes right along with..."insecure men never make mistakes or apologize." :ohdear:

Oh the irony. You must have missed a few comments just above this one.

[Stu from NYC]

Oh the irony. You must have missed a few comments just above this one.

Just a few???:bigbow:

[Scorpyo]

So what you're saying, is that decent people cannot change their mind or have a change of heart based on listening to additional viewpoints...or they're considered to be "succumbing/caving?" :oops:


That goes right along with..."insecure men never make mistakes or apologize." :ohdear:

I’m saying I’m not a mind reader. Did you read his mind or did he share his reasoning personally with you? More times than not I’ve witnessed people change their position due to outside pressure as opposed to change of heart. For instance how many have employees been instructed to do something they did not agree with? How many times did they refuse to do what the boss instructed them to do and got fired as opposed to caving in? Maybe Drew had a change of heart or maybe he was a smart employee like so many employees are. We’ll never know but I like to bet with what I believe is the majority.

[GoodLife]

just a few???:bigbow:

84493

[daddymac1127]

I consider myself i reasonable person. Having said Drew Brees was expressing his opinion that he didn't have respect for someone "he felt was disgracing the Flag". He was probably taught that you are not supposed to do that. I was also taught that.

I agree that from my prospective that Flag was being disrespected by the kneeling. We have a RIGHT to our opinion. That's what makes the United States.

I also totally agree that Black Lives Matter as Drew Brees also stated. We can not agree with a person on something but agree on a cause. Again that's what makes the United States.

Have we gotten so petty that you have to agree with me totally on all subjects or you don't agree with me on any?

[BlackhawksFan]

His apology was appropriate. He rightly recognized that kneeling during the anthem was not disrespectful. I served Proudly for 22 years In the US Army and totally support Kaepernick in his protest. It is hard for some to see the good that comes from peaceful protest. No one is more proud of the American flag than I am and I am overjoyed if using the flag or the national anthem to bring attention to the horrible problem of police brutality helps. We all should take a knee against any form of discrimination.

Unfortunately the Commissioner didn't see it that way and until shamed into it last week the NFL's stance hadn't changed in four years. They were brow beat by POTUS into the entire anthem/flag angle that as people see now actually had nothing to do with it.

I have further thoughts but I'm going to leave them be to keep in the spirit of the rules.

Oh and on a closing note thank you for your service, men and women such as yourself give our country and those of us lucky enough to live here our freedoms that many are currently excercising.

[jmpalladino]

Since we are rehashing an old thread, do we need to go over the math again for these numbers?

84490

I wonder if Drew has seen these stats.

I've changed my mind, I don't think Drew made the apology to protect his sponsorships.

He did it for self preservation. When you have 300 pound guys coming that want to tear your head off, you want to be sure your 300 pound blockers are well motivated.

What is the"Bureau of Justice" , the source of your slide? I have never heard of such a Federal Bureau. Fake Info, maybe?

[GoodLife]

What is the"Bureau of Justice" , the source of your slide? I have never heard of such a Federal Bureau. Fake Info, maybe?

Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) - About the Bureau of Justice Statistics (https://www.bjs.gov/index.cfm?ty=abu)

See the .gov in the link? That should give you a clue.

[kathy1516]

The left believes that Drew apologized because he "saw the error of is statement." Sorry if I am not so easily convinced. I accept his apology, but I also suspect he still believes what he originally stated and just had to apologize for the sake of his career and pressure that was put on him for being honest. I agree with what he said originally, even though he is just another voice along with many others. His being an athlete and making a statement goes a long way in the media, but he is still just one voice. I respect both his first statement and the fact that he was forced to make an apology.
CK is an opportunist, using his color to further his career that was sagging and in jeopardy of his being cut loose. He was being benched and he didn't like it. He saw an opportunity to use/USE a racial divide in this country for his own benefit. I know some will/want to disagree with his motives, but if you follow his actions closely you will see it proved out. If one wishes to express their belief that the police are racially biased and that minorities are down trodden by law enforcement, there are many better ways to express this without dividing and insulting many Americans. The National Anthem and the Flag is not a means to gather support, other than those that enjoy radical animosity and the opportunity to become militant with any controversial excuse. Although I believe that sports should not be political, if one wishes to express his/her opinion or support for an issue, they could wear attire (if allowed) expressing their view, or they could take their knee if when there is a goal made, etc. Flaunting their disrespect for patriotism does not garner the support of veterans or those that have lost family or friends during their service to their country. Liberals enjoy twisting the circumstances and also like to use rationalization and justification such as "well some folks wear flags on their clothes" and " do you stand for the National Anthem at home?" What's the expression, straw man?
My view of this matter is not racist, it's patriotic. I am just as disturbed by white athletes taking a knee as I am CK. In my opinion, it is disrespectful to our country AND to all those that have served. I am a strong believer in law enforcement and honor them when ever possible. There are a few bad folks in EVERY occupation. Athletes that bet for or against their team or shave points, crooked doctors, crooked politicians that take bribes, military members that use excessive force on civilians, Inside stock market trading, etc. This was a selfish, elitist athlete that saw his career coming to an end and desperately used what he knew was the "race card" to ensure that he would not be either benched, traded or just cut loose.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion and this is mine. Drew had to apologize for his career; I don't. In my opinion, President Trump should not have stated his opinion in public because he just gave credence to CK's behavior. If he would have ignored it, then we would not be having this conversation today. CK would be less than a memory to most folks. CK who?
Athletes should shut up and just play the game and everyone will be happier. Some undo the fruits of their position by delving into political statements and movements.
Very well written. Sports is not the place to do your protesting. Taking a knee was disrespectful to our country, our freedoms, and to my husband who was a POW in WWII and to all others who served and/or lost their lives fighting for the freedoms that exist today.

[ColdNoMore]

Unfortunately the Commissioner didn't see it that way and until shamed into it last week the NFL's stance hadn't changed in four years. They were brow beat by POTUS into the entire anthem/flag angle that as people see now actually had nothing to do with it.

I have further thoughts but I'm going to leave them be to keep in the spirit of the rules.

Oh and on a closing note thank you for your service, men and women such as yourself give our country and those of us lucky enough to live here our freedoms that many are currently excercising.

Exactly! :thumbup:

[ColdNoMore]

Very well written. Sports is not the place to do your protesting. Taking a knee was disrespectful to our country, our freedoms, and to my husband who was a POW in WWII and to all others who served and/or lost their lives fighting for the freedoms that exist today.

Unlike some people, I DO THINK your husband is a hero...even though he was caught and became a POW. :thumbup:

[TOTV Team]

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