Lance Briggs won't let a fine stand in the way of showing some patriotism on Sept. 11.
The Chicago Bears linebacker on Thursday tweeted a picture of American flag-adorned gloves and cleats that he said he plans to wear in Sunday's season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.
"Reebok great job on these gloves and shoes..looks like I'm getting fined this week. Lol!" Briggs tweeted. "By far the best fine I will ever have to pay. Thanks"
NFLÂ spokesman Greg Aiello hinted to ESPN Radio on Friday that Briggs will not be fined if he wears his the patriotic gear.
The talk of red, white and blue is a light-hearted detour for Briggs, who has formally requested a trade in light of the Bears' unwillingness to re-work his contract.
"Lance had a statement to make and he made it," Angelo said, according to the Bears' official website. "He and I have talked one-on-one. I understand where he is and he understands where we're at. I want to leave it at that because we do not talk about those matters publicly."
Angelo believes Briggs will be able to put his contract disappointments on the backburner by kickoff Sunday.
"He's been a great player for us and will continue to be," Angelo said. "We certainly want him to play his whole career as a Chicago Bear. But it's now time to get focused and ready for the season, and nobody knows that any better than Lance."
