Fox Sports NFL analyst Michael Strahan has been criticized by viewers on social media for not placing his hand over his heart during the national anthem on Sunday.
The Fox team, which also includes the likes of Terry Bradshaw and Rob Gronkowski, hosted their show from Naval Base San Diego ahead of Veterans Day on Monday.
The national anthem was played on the show before Sunday’s busy schedule of NFL action began with a large number of military personnel around the team.
As is tradition, most of the Fox panel members lined up and placed their right hands over their hearts. That included Curt Menefee, Howie Long, Bradshaw, Gronkowski, Jimmy Johnson and Jay Glazer.
However, Strahan, who played 15 seasons with the New York Giants and is currently a regular host on Good Morning America, decided to keep his hands clasped in front of him.
Michael Strahan (right) has been criticized for not placing his hand over his heart during Sunday’s national anthem.
That decision did not go down well with viewers, who took to social media in large numbers to criticize the 52-year-old.
Newsmax host Todd Starnes posted: ‘Michael Strahan disrespected the military during a Veterans Day pregame show on @NFLonFOX.
‘The great irony is that Strahan is on a ship surrounded by men and women who would be willing to sacrifice their lives to protect his freedom. Therefore, his behavior is not only disgusting, but downright cowardly.”
Another fan commented: ‘What the hell is wrong with Michael Strahan!? On fucking Veterans Day! Boo, @NFL. Boo, @NFLonFOX. It’s not right.’
A third added: ‘Fire Michael Strahan! This is unacceptable!’
‘@NFLonFOX Michael Strahan, standing with the US military in honor of Veterans Day, can’t show honor and respect during the National Anthem… Wow!’ wrote another
Another said Strahan’s decision was “disrespectful to all veterans and Americans.”
‘Why doesn’t Michael Strahan put his hand over his heart during the performance of our National Anthem?’ asked a fan.
Strahan helped the Giants win the Super Bowl against Tom Brady and the Patriots in 2008.
Strahan has become a television personality and is currently a regular host of Good Morning America.
Strahan, 52, was selected by the Giants in the second round of the 1993 NFL draft.
He played in New York throughout his career, winning the Super Bowl against Tom Brady and Bill Belichick’s New England Patriots team in 2008.
Strahan is still tied with TJ Watt for the record for most quarterback sacks in a single season and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
Earlier in the Fox broadcast, Brady delivered a special message to members of the military.
The seven-time Super Bowl winner said, “We truly honor you today in the NFL.” You, men and women who serve us around the world, are our heroes.
You have our respect. You have the best team in the world and I have seen great teams.
‘But there is no better team in the world than our army and our armed forces. We admire your commitment. We admire your dedication. We admire your sacrifice. So enjoy today. We, as the NFL, honor you. We love you. And thank you very much.’