Colin Kaepernick started a movement when he decided not to stand for the National Anthem in protest to the oppression, inequality and police brutality against black people and other minorities. On Sunday, week 1 of the NFL season, numerous players around the league showed their support for Kaepernick’s message by kneeling during the anthem as well, while others raised a black power fist.
Denver’s Brandon Marshall began the season with an act of protest, kneeling during the anthem prior to the Broncos’ opening game against the Carolina Panthers. Marshall lost an endorsement because of his protest.
Kansas City Chiefs locked arms in unity but cornerback Marcus Peters raised a black power fist. He told the press Friday that he salutes Kaepernick, calling it “a great cause.”
During the Seattle game against Miami, Dolphins Arian Foster, Michael Thomas, Jelani Jenkins and Kenny Stills knelt during the national anthem. On the other side, Seahawks players locked arms during the anthem, not exactly in protest, but to show unity. Dolphins released a statement on Twitter saying they encouraged their players to stand during the anthem, but they also respect the rights of individuals.
In later games, the New England Patriots’ Martellus Bennett and Devin McCourty raised their fists following the anthem, as did Jurrell Casey, Wesley Woodyard and Jason McCourty of the Tennessee Titans.
Photos in gallery above.
