Football fans across the world may be adjusting their TV sets. NFL coaches across the league are rocking brown-colored hoodies. The league has always been a fan of uniformity, wearing different colors in the past for various reasons — wearing pink to support breast cancer awareness springs to mind. But why are NFL coaches wearing the brown camouflage?
Every year, NFL teams choose a Sunday as their Salute to Service weekend. The league wants to honor the troops, so coaches wear brown military apparel to provide a visual of their support. The NFL also sells hoodies to raise money for the United States military.
How Much Money Has the NFL Raised?
Since 2011, more than $66 million has been raised for the Salute to Service partners to support and uplift our nation’s military community through resources, programming, recognition, and unique experiences across the world.
The NFL partnered with the Wounded Warrior Project and United Service Organizations. The Wounded Warrior Project is a non-profit organization whose mission is to assist veterans injured physically or mentally in serving their country.
MORE: What Is the NFL’s Salute to Service?
“We are grateful for the men and women serving in our armed forces for the many sacrifices they make every day while defending our country. Their courage and dedication assure us so many important freedoms, and the opportunity to enjoy a little football,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a memo to the league.
“Throughout the last 12 years, Salute to Service has allowed the NFL family to convey our thanks to service members, veterans, and their families and support organizations within the military community across the world. The NFL is proud to highlight those who have served and currently serve our country.”
Nike, Fanatics, and New Era have partnered with the NFL on the Salute to Service endeavor. While the hoodies may be the most noticeable apparel around the league, other options are available for football fans and/or those who wish to honor veterans and support the United States military.
Camouflage hats and shirts of retired Hall of Famers or Future Hall of Famers, Emmitt Smith and Tom Brady, are available for purchase.
How Is the Pat Tillman Foundation Connected with the NFL?
Pat Tillman was an Arizona Cardinals defensive back who left the league in the prime of his career to serve in the United States military. Unfortunately, Tillman passed away while serving his country in battle in Afghanistan. The Pat Tillman Foundation provides scholarships to children of active service members.
Is It Mandatory for NFL Coaches To Wear Salute to Service Gear?
The NFL Coaches Association asks coaches to wear the Salute to Service apparel, but not all NFL coaches are members of the NFL Coaches Association. New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is not a member of the NFL Coaches Association and did not wear the Salute to Service hoodie.
Recently, on Monday Night Football, New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh chose not to wear the Salute to Service hoodie.
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