Jerry Rice answers Colin Kaepernick’s protest
By James Dudko
Jerry Rice says he respects Colin Kaepernick’s recent stance, but has urged the San Francisco 49ers quarterback not to disrespect the American flag.
Kaepernick provoked controversy and debate when he opted not to stand during the singing of America’s national anthem before a recent preseason game.
He told NFL Media reporter Steve Wyche his reasons:
"“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”"
Many have debated Kaepernick’s act of protest, with Rice the latest to make his feelings known. The Hall of Fame wide receiver took to Twitter to let Kaepernick know he’s not completely happy with the 28-year-old’s choice, according to CSN Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco:
"“All lives matter. So much going on in this world today. Can we all just get along! Colin, I respect your stance but don’t disrespect the Flag.”"
Regardless of Rice’s words, Kaepernick already has plans to continue his sit-down protest during subsequent playings of the anthem, per Maiocco. Although the same source has also revealed how Kaepernick is keen to stress he’s not being critical of the U.S. armed forces.
Kaepernick’s actions have struck a powerful chord on a national level. MMQB writer Peter King used the word “inflame” to describe the impact of this show of defiance.
What comes next will naturally determine the true scope of the implications, both in terms of national debate, as well as for Kaepernick personally, of his actions.
In many ways, what comes next will really depend on how far Kaepernick wants to take his protest. Refusing to stand for the anthem once won’t be anywhere close enough to building awareness for the issues the 49ers’ backup quarterback has raised, according to Les Carpenter of the Guardian.
As for his playing career, Kaepernick already knew his stock with the 49ers was low. Not even the arrival of head coach Chip Kelly and his fast-tempo, option-based and moving-pocket offense has been enough to revive Kaepernick’s tenure in the Bay Area.
The dual-threat No. 7 is now a long shot to stay on the roster, according to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, although he stressed any decision to release the quarterback will be purely football-related and separate from his socio-political actions.