Las Vegas Raiders’ tight end Jason Witten replied to his former teammate, Dez Bryant. Witten had played with Bryant in Dallas Cowboys. Recently, former Cowboys’ player Dez Bryant openly called out Jerry Jones, Stephen Jones and Jason Witten for not speaking up on the current Black Lives Matter protest. Bryant, in his tweet, had stressed on the need for NFL officials, team owners and players to present a united front.
You are correct… I don’t feel like I’m calling them out but I feel they will get a different understanding of what unity really look like https://t.co/rsp5Mj5Rjm
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) June 7, 2020
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An ex-Dallas Cowboys player, Witten calls for change
Recently, Witten replied to Bryant’s tweet with a statement regarding the current situation. In his tweet, Witten wrote about how he tried calling his ex-teammate. Raiders’ tight end added that he knows what he stands for, and believes in. He summed up writing we must believe in a change and should listen to everyone around.
Dez – When I saw your tweet, I tried to call you. I don’t know what you’re feeling, but I do know what I stand for and believe in.
I believe it’s time for change.
I believe we must all listen.
I believe together is the way.Let’s unite and impact change together. Much Love. https://t.co/pzB0bUa9AJ
— Jason Witten (@JasonWitten) June 8, 2020
Dez Bryant replied to Witten’s statement, thanking his former teammate for the support and show of unity. Jerry Jones and Stephen Jones have not responded to Bryant’s Tweet.
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) June 8, 2020
NFL breaks silence
In the past, the NFL has traditionally remained silent on racial discrimination and police brutality. However, George Floyd’s murder evoked countrywide outrage and protests, compelling the league to take a stand on the issue.
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According to reports, a bunch of league players and employees forced NFL commissioner to speak up. On Friday, June 5, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a video in support of the ongoing protests. He apologized for not speaking up till now. Goodell also promised to listen to everyone around.
We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter. #InspireChange pic.twitter.com/ENWQP8A0sv
— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020
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Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones has still not given his statement on the current situation. However, his team released a video in support of the ongoing protests. Surprisingly, Jones was missing from the video.
In light of the recent protests taking place due to the alleged homicide of George Floyd, it is inspiring to see athletes and sporting organizations speak up about the injustices prevailing in the world today.