Watch: Browns players to show equality-based message before anthem

The Cleveland Browns will allow their players to make a social message before the playing of the national anthem ahead of Sunday's season opener, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reports, citing sources.

A group of more than 10 Browns took a knee in prayer during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" in Week 2 of the preseason. The demonstration drew some criticism, including from franchise legend Jim Brown who said, "I don't desecrate my flag and my national anthem."

Ahead of the Browns' Week 1 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team will play a video with messages about racial equality from a number of players. Among those involved will be quarterback DeShone Kizer, tackle Joe Thomas, and head coach Hue Jackson, according to Florio.

Players asked team owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam to stand on the sidelines with the team during the ceremony.

The video may be the Browns' alternative to kneeling during the national anthem.

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