PHILADELPHIA — Astute NFL viewers may have noticed a weird fashion trend whenever the camera panned to the sidelines on Sunday.
With a few exceptions, coaches across the league opted to wear brown hooded sweatshirts in all of Sunday's games.
Why?
It's part of the NFL's Salute to Service initiative, a year-round effort by the league "to honor, empower and connect with our nation's service members, veterans and their families," the league said on its website.
"Throughout November, the NFL family, including all 32 clubs and their players, will support and thank those who have served and continue to serve," the league said. "Salute to Service will be highlighted in games during Weeks 9-11 and throughout additional special events led by the league and its clubs."
Since 2011, the NFL said, more than $66 million has been raised for the Salute to Service partners to support and uplift the U.S. military community through resources, programming, recognition and unique experiences.
“We are grateful for the men and women serving in our armed forces for the many sacrifices they make every day while defending our country. Their courage and dedication assure us so many important freedoms, and the opportunity to enjoy a little football,"NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said on NFL.com. “Throughout the last 12 years, Salute to Service has allowed the NFL family to convey our thanks to service members, veterans and their families and support organizations within the military community across the world. The NFL is proud to highlight those who have served and currently serve our country."