The NFLPA had argued the Bengals based their decision to pass on Reid solely on his answer to the question about the anthem. The union believed it was a precondition of employment that violated the CBA, particularly since the NFL had yet to institute its anthem policy requiring players to either stand on the sideline during the anthem or remain in the locker room. The league then put that policy on hold in July while continuing conversations with the players on a resolution to the issue. The sides have yet to reach an agreement on a new policy.