After Colin Kaepernick first protested the National Anthem throughout the first three preseason games, two more players joined the 49ers quarterback in the final week of preseason games. That number may grow by a whole lot more this upcoming Sunday.
One of the two that joined Kaepernick was Jereme Lane, ironically a cornerback for the bitter rival Seattle Seahawks. Lane explained his protest was to support both Kaepnerick amongst criticism of his actions and his cause.
Seahawks receiver Doug Baldwin spoke to the media following practice Thursday and spoke on the issue, noting that not only he himself would stand (or sit for that matter) by Lane, but his entire team as a whole held a meeting to discuss protesting the anthem during Sunday afternoon’s game against the Miami Dolphins. That game just so happens to fall on September 11th, the 15th anniversary of the tragic attacks in which our flag became an iconic symbol for strength.
“[I want] To make sure I get all of my ducks in a row before I do so.”
Linebacker Bobby Wagner also spoke on the issue saying, “Anything we want to do, it’s not going to be individual. It’s going to be a team thing. That’s what the world needs to see. The world needs to see people coming together versus being individuals.” He added, “Whatever we decide to do will be a big surprise.”
NFL commissioner Roger Goodall released a statement Thursday about the Kaepernick situation saying, I don’t necessarily agree with what he is doing. I support our players when they want to see change in society, and we don’t live in a perfect society. On the other hand, we believe very strongly in patriotism in the NFL. I personally believe very strongly in that.”
Surely he will not approve on an entire team following Colin Kaepernick. We shall see come Sunday.
(h/t Deadspin)
