The NFL reportedly has proposed contributing nearly $100 million to meet needs in African-American communities, according to an ESPN report.
The league has been looking for a way to work with players who have been protesting during the national anthem for social justice causes, while at the same time reassuring fans who oppose such protests.
The proposed initiative came about as the result of talks between league officials and the Players Coalition, a group consisting of about 40 players meeting with officials about social justice concerns.
SIGN UP to watch every NFL game and RedZone this season
However, not all players are happy with the negotiations led by Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins and retired wide receiver Anquan Boldin. Miami Dolphins safety Michael Thomas and 49ers safety Eric Reid both said Wednesday they have withdrawn from the group.
"The Players Coalition was supposed to be formed as a group that represents NFL Athletes who have been silently protesting social injustices and racism," Reid and Thomas said in a joint statement released on their Twitter accounts. "However, Malcolm and Anquan can no longer speak on our behalf as we don't believe the coalition's beliefs are in our best interests as a whole."
Accordng to ESPN, the NFL submitted its proposal to players Monday. Players will discuss the offer Wednesday night. Owners would also still have to vote on the proposal at the league meetings in March.
The approximately $100 million in the proposal would be contributed over a seven-year period, and would come from a combination of owner and player contributions, along with fundraising activities such as memorabilia auctions.