Instead of being unwaveringly strict on its own policies, the NFL does seem to have a heart, as none of the players who wore specialized cleats on September 11 will be fined for violating the league's uniform policy.
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The news came down from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, as players like Colts punter Pat McAfee, Giants receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Victor Cruz, Titans linebacker Avery Williamson and a bevy of others wore specialized cleats honoring victims of 9/11—the 15th anniversary of the attacks.
Odell Beckham Jr. and Victor Cruz plan to wear special 9/11 cleats for today's season opener. pic.twitter.com/mt8uciDJ41
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) September 11, 2016
Colts punter, Pat McAfee's cleats today. He told me "I know I'm gonna get fined and I don't care!Worth every penny!" pic.twitter.com/h6xjIBw8Vl
— Ian Fitzsimmons (@Ianfitzespn) September 11, 2016
The NFL has historically fined players for not adhering to their strict dress code, even if the players were doing so for a righteous cause.
Brandon Marshall was fined for wearing green shoes to highlight Mental Health Awareness week in 2013 when he was a member of the Bears.
Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams was fined last year for wearing "Find the Cure" eye black for breast cancer (which the NFL alters their uniforms in support for Breast Cancer Awareness month) and Steelers cornerback William Gay was fined for wearing purple cleats to support domestic violence awareness.
The NFL recently said they would allow players to show support for a league-approved charity on their shows during week 13.
[h/t SB Nation]
