Michael Strahan Addresses National Anthem Backlash, I Wasn't Making a Statement!

Michael Strahan is firing back at the outrage surrounding his stance for the national anthem on Sunday … claiming his hand placement was simply the result of being caught up in the moment.

The Giants great-turned-TV personality released a lengthy video statement on the matter … emphatically denying he was trying to make a political statement as the “Star-Spangled Banner” played during the Veteran’s Day-themed “Fox NFL Sunday” broadcast from Naval Base San Diego.

Strahan explained his deep respect for the military is what actually led to his pose … as he was so amazed by the sailors present for the event, he didn’t realize his co-hosts all had their hands on their chests as the anthem played — which, he admitted, made him to panic.

Instead of changing mid-song to match the other guys and risk looking like a “fool,” Strahan said he felt it was best to respectfully keep his hands in front of him — and that’s what he did.

The Hall of Famer scoffed at the notion he lacked respect for the armed forces — after all, he grew up on a military base and his family is full of people who served the country.

As for his tense encounter with a reporter who tried to ask him about the subject outside his NYC pad on Tuesday … Strahan shared his regret over how he handled the situation — but said he will always protect his family and his home.