FRISCO - The NFL was rattled in 2017 by controversy over protests during the national anthem.

Should players be allowed to kneel, stand or handle the anthem as they choose? Or do teams - and the league itself - have the right to mandate such behaviors?

A gesture that began with ex-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick protesting police brutality and other unequal conditions against people of color escalated after President Donald Trump said in September that players who kneel during the anthem should be fired.

What do college players, including elite NFL prospects, think?

SportsDay surveyed 22 Big 12 players at conference media days last week, canvassing at least one respondent from each of the 10 schools. Topics ranged from head injuries and amateurism in college sports to which Big 12 players are the fastest, biggest trash talkers and best NFL prospects. We also asked players if they believe college players should be allowed to kneel during the national anthem.

Thirteen players said they support kneeling during the anthem while two opposed it. Seven chose to pass or otherwise not choose a side.

Many answered passionately.

"I'd never do it because I have family in the military and think it's disrespectful," said a linebacker. "If they want to do it, they do it and their choice. They've just got to realize the way it looks."

Others insisted kneeling constitutes free speech, a right from the First Amendment.

"Guys come from all walks of life," one quarterback said. "You don't know what everybody's been through. ... You take the time to know somebody, you'd be surprised what you learn."

The NFL hadn't resolved anthem disputes by summer. First league owners approved a policy in May requiring players to stand for The Star-Spangled Banner if they are on the field. Players also have the option to stay in the locker room during the anthem, but teams will be fined for players on the sideline who don't stand.

Last week, the NFL and Players Association released a joint statement saying they had reached a "standstill" agreement and wouldn't enforce the May rule until further dialogues.

College players know the issue continues to percolate as they chase NFL dreams. Dialogues could stretch past next year's draft when some respondents anticipate hearing their name called.

Their support is about freedom of expression, players said, more than what message that expression sends in a polarizing time.

"This country's based on having a free spirit, freedom of speech," one defensive end said. "So I'm OK with players doing whatever.

"It's a decision you'll have to live with on both sides," he continued. "I'm not here for the anthem. I'm there to play the game."

Twitter: @JoriEpstein