Albeit some might not agree with the notion that those in the armed forces or patriotism as a whole warrants special consideration, the NFL took the proper steps in
allowing players to wear this nations colors in the peripheral attire in recognition of the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Of course there is branding issues (sponsorship and endorsement related) rules to followed (money being the primary concern in this culture of greed), I think the NFL did the correct thing in general by allowing some flex in the rules for the occasion.
IMO, it is the least the sport can do is to allow the players to have some personal influence on how they wish to support the anniversary via their attire.
Chris Gizzi running out onto the field at Lambeau with the flag in tow is a burnt in memory.. maybe a new one is formed via freedom in expression from the current players.
"The oranges are dry; the apples are mealy; and the papayas... I don't know what's going on with the papayas!"