The NFL is certain to show recognition of one of America's most painful days as it kicks off the season with a full slate of games on a day when millions of hearts will be heavy. Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs plans to honor September 11 in his own special way by wearing American-flag emblazoned gloves and cleats when the Bears open the season against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday.

His gear will be in violation of the NFL's strict uniform code, but that doesn’t seem to matter to him.

“Reebok did a 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.”

But from the sounds of it, Briggs may actually escape a fine from the NFL because of what his uniform is honoring.

According to an espn.com report, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello sent an email to ESPN Radio's Mike & Mike in the Morning show stating Briggs “thinks he will be fined. I don't think he will be.”

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(Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)