Players, fans plan to join anthem protest

When the full slate of NFL games begins this weekend, Colin Kaepernick may find that he has more support for his national anthem protest than he may have anticipated.

When the full slate of NFL games begins this weekend, Colin Kaepernick may find that he has more support for his national anthem protest than he may have anticipated, both from fellow players and fans.

The San Francisco 49ers quarterback, who has chosen to remain seated for the anthem during preseason games, is protesting to raise awareness of violence against people of color, and at least two of his fellow NFL players will be joining him. Jeremy Lane, the Seattle Seahawks cornerback, sat for the anthem during the preseason finale and plans to do so when the team opens against the Miami Dolphins. Eric Reid, Kaepernick’s 49ers teammate, also plans to sit.

Lane told reporters that he had received no negative reaction from fans.

On Monday, President Barack Obama offered his opinion on Kaepernick’s protest, noting the “long history” of athletes taking a stand on social issues.

“I don’t doubt his sincerity. I think he cares about some real, legitimate issues that have to be talked about,” Obama said.

Kaepernick’s protest spread to soccer over the weekend, with U.S. women’s national team member Megan Rapinoe kneeling during the national anthem before her pro game with the Seattle Reign.