I think you don't understand what I am saying.  There are many in this country who claim to be patriots, they go on and on about the flag or the national anthem, but have zero understanding of what the 1st Amendment actually says.  If you are triggered by my comment, you might want to check your own assumptions.  In no way did I point to 1 group for this and in no way did I suggest that people aren't free to spend their money elsewhere.

If you are offended, by all means, don't watch the NFL or MLB.  Spend your money on whatever recreational activity you wish, but the reality is that protest is patriotic.  It is something that is actually covered by the 1st Amendment.  If the team owners choose to fire these guys, it is their choice, speech doesn't come without consequences.

If you watch the game at home, and aren't standing during the anthem at home, then your complaints are exactly the faux patriotism I am talking about.