The NFL is notorious for fining players who want to deviate from the uniform norm and even on the 15th anniversary of September 11th, their uniform policy is still strictly enforced.
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That didn't stop some players though, as they decided to wear specialized cleats honoring the victims and their families, which they knew they'd get fined for.
Titans linebacker Avery Williamson was advised of the fine headed his way if he went through with his cleat choice, which drew a ton of national support, including some from New York and New Jersey police associations offering to pay the fine.
Avery Williamson (@AWilliamson54) wears custom cleats paying tribute to 9/11 despite warning of fine from @nfl. pic.twitter.com/JIDVlUKrcO
— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) September 11, 2016
Bobby Egbert, the public information officer for the Port Authority Police Benevolent Association, told The Tennessean in a statement: "We, along with the New Jersey State Police Benevolent Association, are offering to pay any reasonable fine levied by the NFL if Avery chooses to wear his 9/11 cleats."
Williamson wasn't the only player who wanted to honor 9/11 victims as Colts punter Pat McAfee and Giants receivers Victor Cruz and Odell Beckham Jr. wore specialized cleats as well.
Gameday vibes.. I STAND with every citizen of the greatest country on earth..
S/O ~> @mcnultyta2 for the majestic pic.twitter.com/6yeCUz27h8
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 11, 2016
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
"I felt like I had to do that, just for myself and to represent the people that were lost and the people that do their jobs every day to protect us. I feel like it was just a duty," Williamson said, according to Yahoo Sports.
Hopefully the NFL does something smart with the money their collecting from the fines, like donating them to a 9/11 victims charity.
[h/t Yahoo Sports]
