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Thursday, September 08, 2011 By Seamus Ertel
 Sunday, September 11 will be a day of tribute related to the terrorist attacks. It is also opening day for the NFL. - Yahoo
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After ending the lockout, signing free agents, hosting training camps, and participating in pre-season games- the NFL is finally back! Given less than a one month window until opening day, teams were forced to cram in everything they could in one month which would normally be spread out over a six month period. And on top of all these events, the opening day for the NFL is on 9/11.
This could potentially be the most important opening day the NFL has witnessed to date, specifically because the schedule of games for that day was designed to appropriately commemorate 9/11 on a national level and what it represents to Americans. Football, being one of America’s biggest pasttimes and most popular sport, is the ideal way to commemorate one of the most somber dates in American history.
Earlier this week the New York Jets visited ground zero of the 9/11 attacks to commemorate and honor those who were victims of the terrorist attacks.The workers at ground zero were shocked to see the Jets show up after the practice and talked to them at length.
Cornerback Antonio Cromartie described the visit as a “very humbling experience.” He wrote on his Twitter page, "just walked out to see Ground Zero. A really heart felt experience. God Bless everyone."
Afterwards, fellow linebacker Aaron Maybin tweeted, "visiting the World Trade Center site with the rest of the D. Powerful experience."
Jets coach Rex Ryan and the Jets explained that they feel a “responsibility” to play well this weekend and to honor those who were lost during the attacks.
The games and broadcasts opening the NFL season will unite fans in recognition of those who lost their lives and honor the families who lost loved ones. They will salute the American spirit, the early responders on 9/11, and other heroes that contributed to the nation's recovery.
All games in each of the broadcast windows will feature a special video introduction followed by performances of "Taps" from near the sites of the attacks, and moments of silence. For the 1 P.M. Ravens vs. Steelers game, "Taps" will be performed in Shanksville, PA with the special video introduction prior to the game. Coaches, players, local first responders, and other heroes will come together to hold a field-length American flag for the playing of the National Anthem prior to the game. Smaller American flags will also be handed out prior to the game to all fans as they enter the stadium.
Players and fans alike will unite in what will most likely be one of the most emotional moments in the NFL. The nation will rally behind these teams and take time to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11.
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