NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, has lent his support to players protesting the American National Anthem.

Goodell has been known as the iron fisted dictator of the No Fun League. He has fined players for celebrating too much and for wearing the wrong socks in the past. Surprisingly, Goodell lent support to NFL players protesting the National Anthem. The NFL does not have a rule that forces players to stand at attention while the anthem is playing.

Concern stemmed from many fans when San Francisco 49ers back-up quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, began the protest during the preseason. Many complained that he was disrespecting U.S. military veterans. Kaepernick said that he was protesting racial inequality in the United States of America.

On Sunday, Goodell spoke in an interview with the Associated Press, and encouraged the protest of his players.

“I truly respect our players wanting to speak out and change their community. We don’t live in a perfect society. We want them to use their voice. And they’re moving from protest to progress and trying to make things happen in communities,” said Goodell. “I think where they’re moving and how they’re moving there is very productive and we’re going to encourage that.”

According to Goodell, he has yet to speak with Kaepernick but it is believed that Goodell will soon reach out to the NFL veteran. Many also expect the commissioner to release an official statement on the view of the league as it concerns the players and their choice to protest.