He didn't "fail" to recognize the cause behind the "gesture". The cause is based on a lie, first of all. But, for the sake of brevity, let's skip that part and assume that the cause was ever rooted in reality. The "gesture" was disrespectful. When the PA announcer says "everyone, please rise for the national anthem" and you sit on the bench, or take a knee, or turn your back (all of these things were done) you aren't fooling anyone with a brain that you are doing anything other than spiting the flag to show your disdain.

Everyone understood this, even though some tried to justify it, they knew what it was about. And, again, putting aside the fact that "systemic racism" is a total lie, if they wanted to protest, that was a poor time to do it. These are millionaires getting ready to play a game in front of thousands of fans who poured their hearts into their teams, and these guys picked THAT time to make their demonstrations of disgust for the very country which has afforded them the freedom to play a game and make a fortune.

Drew understood this, as well. But, suddenly, when the political climate heated up, the players became completely intolerant of Drew's opinion that protesting during the anthem was the wrong way to go. The players say it's not about the flag, but they won't protest at any other time. That is horse crap, and anyone who is remotely honest about it knows that.

Your personal story of flipping your stance is not necessarily surprising. There are certain people who I'd expect to do whatever makes their seat a little cooler. I thought Drew had a little more integrity, but apparently it was more important to patch things up and continue playing football, without worrying about whether or not his linemen would block for him.