The NFL is planning to have ‘Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing’ performed live or played before every game during Week 1, according to The Undefeated. The song is expected to be played ahead of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner.’
The playing of the song is the latest step from the league to be a prominent voice in the fight against racism. Last month, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a video that the league mishandled peaceful NFL player protests against police brutality and systemic racism.
Goodell’s statement came after a video was released featuring several star players calling for league to show support in their fight against racism. The NFL also subsequently announced that it would be pledging $250 million over the next 10 years to “combat systemic racism and support the battle against the ongoing and historic injustices faced by African Americans.’
The league is also considering several other measures to recognize victims of police brutality this season, according to The Undefeated. That could include listing the names of victims on uniform patches or helmet stickers and producing educational programs.
The NFL will not prohibit players from protesting during the national anthem, but it is still unclear whether the league’s television partners will show those protests live on air or go to commercial.
![Former NFL Coache Jon Gruden have a laugh while attending an NFL training camp session ten at the Miller Electric Center, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]](https://frontofficesports.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/USATSI_26781802_168422351_lowres-scaled-e1784132043881.jpg?quality=80&w=300)
