NFL rallies around protesting players denounced by Trump

Oakland Athletics catcher Bruce Maxwell kneels during the national anthem as right fielder Mark Canha places his hand on his shoulder before a game against the Texas Rangers at Oakland Coliseum, September 24, 2017. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports

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SOMERSET, N.J.,/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - NFL teams staged a show of solidarity with protesting players before Sunday's games by kneeling, linking arms or staying off the field during the U.S. national anthem, defying President Donald Trump's call for owners to fire those who refuse to stand.