Steelers remain in locker room during anthem

Sep 24, 2017 - 6:18 PM CHICAGO -- The Pittsburgh Steelers remained in their locker room during the national anthem prior to their game against the Chicago Bears Sunday at Soldier Field.

The Steelers took the field immediately after the conclusion of the singing of the national anthem and arrived to heavy boos from the crowd. The Bears stood on the sideline with their arms locked large American flag, held by fans, was displayed on the field.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told CBS Sports that the choice to keep his team off the field during the anthem was not to be disrespectful. He said the decision was made to "remove ourselves from the circumstance" because people shouldn't have to choose."

Tomlin was on the Pittsburgh sideline for the anthem along with offensive coordinator. Meanwhile, left tackle Alejandro Villanueva, a veteran who served in the Army, stood near the tunnel during the national anthem with his hand over his heart.

"These are very divisive times for our country," Tomlin said in the interview with CBS. "For us as a football team, it's about remaining solid."

In a statement, Bears chairman George McCaskey said the franchise is proud to "support our players, coaches and all members of our organization to bring peace and unity together through football."

McCaskey continued, "What makes this the greatest country in the world are our liberties it was founded upon and the freedom to express oneself in a respectful and peaceful manner. Through important dialogue with our players and team, this divisive political situation has unified our franchise for the present and the future."