David Irving didn't want to reveal his specific plans for what he may or may not do during the national anthem today before the Dallas Cowboys take on the San Francisco 49ers.
But Irving is determined to do something to protest police brutality and racial injustice. He, along with Damontre Moore, raised their fists after the anthem was played before the Cowboys' game against the Green Bay Packers on Oct. 8.
"I have made a call," Irving said. "You'll just have to wait till Sunday."
Irving remained adamant that his actions would not "disrespect the flag," something owner Jerry Jones said would lead to his organization benching players.
"I hope not since it's not about the flag in the first place, you know?" Irving said.
Coach Jason Garrett said he expected every player to stand for the national anthem.
Asked if he considered taking a knee, Irving responded: "I can't say, man."
Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began protesting during the national anthem last year to raise awareness of alleged police brutality against people of color and social injustices.
Irving said he has had personal experiences with police brutality, although that is not the singular issue he's focused on.
"It's a lot of things," Irving said. "I can't even rant to you about anything specifically, but it's not just about police brutality. That's a part of the big picture."
Irving said he has received nothing but favorable feedback for his actions to this point. That is somewhat surprising considering a majority of Cowboys fans side with Jones in thinking that players should not protest during the national anthem.
"I've had way more support," Irving said. "I'm not disrespecting the flag. I really haven't gotten anything negative. It's all positive."
The defensive lineman has five tackles and two sacks this season.
Star-mangled banner
Hockey fans have come to the rescue of a girl who apparently forgot the words while singing the national anthem at a New Jersey Devils game.
Lauralie Mufute started singing "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the Devils' game Friday night against the Sharks when she stumbled after the words "whose broad stripes and bright stars."
She paused for a moment, then restarted the stanza, but stumbled again before reaching "through the perilous night."
The crowd of more than 14,000 at the Prudential Center jumped in, picking up where she left off and finishing the anthem.
The Jersey City girl mouthed the rest of the lyrics as the crowd sang, then flashed an appreciative smile.
Afterward, the Devils tweeted : "Tonight at PruCenter, the Jersey crowd picks up the primary assist during the national anthem."
Mufute sang the anthem at a Devils' game last year, nailing it . New Jersey lost to San Jose 3-0 on Friday night.
Sports quiz
Where did David Irving play college football?
Sports answer
Iowa State
TIM COOPER
Sports on 10/22/2017