3 Seahawks leave field prior to national anthem

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, right, scrambles with the ball as Indianapolis Colts linebacker Najee Goode (52) closes in during the first half of an NFL football preseason game, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Phillip Walker, center, is tackled by Seattle Seahawks linebacker Shaquem Griffin, right, and defensive end Jake Martin (59) during the second half of an NFL football preseason game, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Shaquill Griffin right, greets his twin brother, Seahawks linebacker Shaquem Griffin, left, after Shaquem Griffin made a tackle during the second half of an NFL football preseason game, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver David Moore (83) makes a catch above Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore (23) during the first half of an NFL football preseason game, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Seattle Seahawks players take the field as fire effects go off before an NFL football preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

SEATTLE — Three Seattle Seahawks players ran into the tunnel leading to the team's locker room prior to the national anthem on Thursday night.

Defensive linemen Branden Jackson and Quinton Jefferson, and offensive lineman Duane Brown left the field following team introductions and before the start of the anthem. They returned to the sideline immediately after it concluded. All three were among a group of Seattle players that sat during the anthem last season.

There were no other actions by either Seattle or Indianapolis players during the performance of anthem.

The league and the players' union have yet to announce a policy for this season regarding demonstrations during the anthem after the league initially ordered everyone to stand on the sideline when "The Star-Spangled Banner" is played, or remain in the locker room.

"The NFL has been engaged in constructive discussions with the NFL Players Association regarding the anthem and issues of equality and social justice that are of concern to many Americans," league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email.

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"While those discussions continue, the NFL has agreed to delay implementing or enforcing any club work rules that could result in players being disciplined for their conduct during the performance of the anthem.

"Meanwhile, there has been no change in the NFL's policy regarding the national anthem. The anthem will continue to be played before every game, and all player and non-player personnel on the field at that time are expected to stand during the presentation of the flag and performance of the anthem. Personnel who do not wish to do so can choose to remain in the locker room.

"We remain committed to working with the players to identify solutions and to continue making progress on important social issues affecting our communities."

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