re: None of you would act any different.

Brees had the ultimate leverage in this situation. Aside from this final year, his career is already over and he has accomplished almost EVERYTHING he could. Greatest and most important player in Saints history. 1st ballot HOFer. Holder of numerous career records for a QB. World Champion. Even if Brees never takes another NFL snap, he is OBJECTIVELY one of the greatest QB's to ever play the game. That is already done. From a financial standpoint, he has earned enough money to provide financial security for he and his family for life. No doubt another several million from the 2020 salary would be nice. But it is not an absolute necessity for he and his family to have financial security.

He can walk away RIGHT NOW and none of the above changes. He didn't have to be concerned about money. Or missing the HOF. Or sacrificing his NFL career that was all but over anyway.

For the average person, standing up for your beliefs would probably entail significant risks. I might believe this or that. But if standing firm on that belief puts my family at risk I may have to swallow my pride for the greater benefit of others who rely on me. Brees didn't have that worry, and he could have struck a blow for reason and against authoritarianism (which is EXACTLY what this is. "Either you believe the "right" thing or we will cancel you")