As most NFL coaches were permitted to return to their facilities today, the Jaguars’ return to TIAA Bank Field Friday was marked by something bigger than football. In wake of the recent killing of George Floyd, the spotlight on police brutality and rallying cries against racial issues that millions are protesting in America, the team got together to march from TIAA Bank Field to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in solidarity.
Many joined the march while wearing Black Lives Matter shirts and hoodies, and several players, including receivers D.J. Chark and Chris Conley, kicker Josh Lambo and running backs coach Terry Robiskie, spoke during the event. They were joined by former Jaguar and current JSO officer Ernest Wilford during the march, who also shared remarks.
Per Gene Frenette of the Florida Times-Union, the idea was Robiskie’s. During his time speaking in front of the crowd, he stated that he has never seen such support from an organization having been in the league since 1982 as a coach. Robiskie also said that he attended his first protest in the late 60s, which shows just how long America has battled with racism.
Upon arrival at the sheriff’s office, Conley spoke about how racial injustices have been foreshadowed and urged those marching to know the history of America’s issues because they will lead to change. He also spoke on a confederate monument located at Hemming Park (less than a mile from the sheriff’s office), and how close it was to a horrific racist attack that took place in Jacksonville 60 years ago known as “Axe Handle Saturday.”
Afterward, the team walked back to TIAA Bank Field in solidarity once again where coach Doug Marrone spoke. His message was simply for everyone to do their best to understand where African Americans are coming from when they shed light on the racial issues of America. He also urged everyone to come together and fight against racism to make an impact for the past, present, and future.
