Buccaneers coach Dirk Koetter expressed his disappointment Monday in wide receiver Mike Evans' refusal to stand during the national anthem before Sunday's game out of protest of President-elect Donald Trump.
"Yeah, I'm disappointed for that," Koetter told reporters. "I also respect Mike's freedom of speech and freedom of expression."
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Evans did not stand during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" ahead of the 36-10 win over the Bears, mimicking the movement started in the preseason by 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. He explained to reporters after the game that he will continue to do so "as long as (Trump's) the president-elect."
Koetter stated in August, around the time Kaepernick began staging his protests, that he would not be pleased should one of his players choose to use the national anthem as a platform for their personal causes. Koetter said he texted with Evans Sunday night after the game and hopes to further discuss the situation Wednesday with the wideout.
"I hope it doesn't affect our team," he said. "That's something I'll take whatever measures I think are necessary to try to minimize what effect it has on our team. I'm really not sure. This is unchartered water for me. I'm not sure about any of that."
Kaepernick's demonstrations, intended to raise awareness for racial injustice and police brutality in the United States, have been criticized as anti-military.
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Though for a different cause, Evans emphasized he hoped his choice to protest during the anthem would not be construed the same way, especially considering Sunday's game served as the Buccaneers' annual "Salute to Service" promotion, including a pregame ceremony to veterans.
Asked if he fears Evans' demonstration would negatively impact fan attendance, Koetter said he hopes that's not the case.
"I don't have control over that," he said. "This is all news to me. I've been working, getting ready for Kansas City all day. I don't really have a reaction. I'd be disappointed, because I want to fill that place up. That's Dirk Koetter talking, that's my personal opinion."
