Yesterday, Saints quarterback Drew Brees made a controversial statement about respecting the American flag in an interview with Yahoo Finance. Afterwards, he was heavily criticized by many athletes and celebrities on social media.
Today, Brees took to Instagram and Twitter to apologize, and it appears as though his teammates have accepted his apology. The Saints also held a team meeting in which Sean Peyton addressed the team and Brees talked to his teammates.
I would like to apologize to my friends, teammates, the City of New Orleans, the black community, NFL community and anyone I hurt with my comments yesterday. In speaking with some of you, it breaks my heart to know… https://t.co/Jg36d0Ad0l
— Drew Brees (@drewbrees) June 4, 2020
Wide receiver Michael Thomas acknowledged Brees’ apology.
One of my brothers made a public statement yesterday that I disagreed with. He apologized & I accept it because that’s what we are taught to do as Christians. Now back to the movement! #GeorgeFloyd
— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike) June 4, 2020
This morning, linebacker Demario Davis appeared on CNN and commended Brees for having the strength to apologize and take ownership of his mistake.
JUST NOW: "For him to admit that he was wrong.. I think that is leadership at its finest."
New Orleans @Saints linebacker @demario__davis reacts to hearing @dreabrees' apology in real time. pic.twitter.com/ynY2Ssy6je
— Alli Hedges Maser (@AllisonLHedges) June 4, 2020
Several other teammates have recognized Brees’ apology as well.
I could’ve easily got on social media and attacked @drewbrees yesterday. His comments were extremely insensitive, dismissive, and flat out disappointing. Knowing him personally and his character I decided not to do so, and addressed things internally….
— T. Stead 🎤🎧 (@T_Armstead72) June 4, 2020
I’ve spoken to multiple players and coaches on the New Orleans Saints since Brees’ apology. Many are proud of Brees’ apology, some want to ask him directly more questions, it seems today’s team meeting there is going to be significant communication and discussion with their QB.
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) June 4, 2020
Drew wasn’t talking about the current protest, the riots or really anything besides HIS feelings on kneeling during the National Anthem.He even explained what they were, the basis and that he actually stands with us. Do we have to entirely agree with him, no. https://t.co/KEkzqYj8HR
— Marcus Davenport (@MarcusJD84) June 3, 2020
