NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas has expressed his disapproval of a woman who filmed herself criticizing fellow restaurant patrons for standing up during the national anthem. The incident, which took place at a Mission BBQ restaurant, sparked controversy online.

Former Cleveland Browns great Joe Thomas has taken to social media to condemn a woman who filmed herself berating fellow restaurant patrons for standing up during the national anthem. The incident, which occurred at a Mission BBQ restaurant, sparked outrage online, with many criticizing the woman's behavior as disrespectful.

Thomas, who played his entire career with the Browns, expressed his disapproval of the woman's remarks in a tweet, saying, "I’m sorry you were offended by your country’s national anthem…hopefully you enjoyed the brisket at least!!"

NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

The woman in question recorded herself criticizing others who were standing for "The Star-Spangled Banner" in the restaurant, writing as a screen caption on the video, "I was in this restaurant minding my own business and all the White people stood up and did this s---."

Her video was widely shared on social media, with many criticizing her for her lack of respect for the national anthem and the military veterans who have fought to defend it. Mission BBQ, the restaurant where the incident took place, is known for its support of first responders and military veterans. The restaurant has helped raise more than $20 million for various charities, including the USO, the Honor Flight Network, and Wreaths Across America.

NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele noted that the playing of the national anthem occurs every day at noon at Mission BBQ restaurants across the country. She praised the restaurant for its support of first responders and military veterans.

"This took place at a @MissionBBQ …and it happens EVERY SINGLE DAY at noon at every one of their restaurants across the country!!  It’s incredible to witness & participate," Steele wrote on Twitter.

NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas Criticizes Woman for Disrespecting National Anthem

"They’re ‘the first responders for the first responders’ - there to help feed first responders no matter the emergency.  It’s one reason why the entire Steele family hires them for catering every time we host a party, etc.  This is an INCREDIBLE company (with awesome BBQ) that loves our country & respects our military & first responders."

Thomas's criticism of the woman's behavior has been widely supported online, with many praising him for standing up for the national anthem and the values it represents. The incident highlights the ongoing debate about the proper etiquette for standing during the national anthem, with some people believing that it is a sign of respect for the country and its military, while others view it as a symbol of patriotism that can be divisive.