Colin Kaepernick's protest has helped jersey sales rise

Colin Kaepernick’s protest has helped jersey sales rise

Sep 1, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) gestures during a press conference following the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. San Francisco won 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

Colin Kaepernick’s jersey sales have risen significantly since his protest.

Considering the loud and angry criticism of Colin Kaepernick’s decision to sit out the National Anthem in protest of minority oppression, one would imagine his jersey sales would be terrible at best. However, that is not been the case. In fact, his jersey sales have significantly risen and leads all 49ers in jersey sales.

That’s not all. As of Labor Day, Kaepernick’s jersey ranks third on NFL.com, trailing only Ezekiel Elliott and Odell Beckham Junior. While the fallout of Kaepernick’s actions initially hurt his reputation, he has been receiving far more support as of late.

African-Americans still do not receive equal treatment in many areas and racism is still alive in America. Perhaps Kaepernick’s bold actions have helped build support with certain demographics, ones who are now buying his jersey to show support for him.

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Kaepernick isn’t even the 49ers starter. It would be one thing if Kaepernick was a starting quarterback. But it’s truly fascinating that despite being a backup quarterback and having minimal job security, Kaepernick’s jersey is selling like hot cakes.

Hatred for Kaepernick has cooled off after the initial fallout. Kaepernick’s comments after the game helped others understand the true motives behind his protest.

“I’m not anti-American,” Kaepernick said, via ESPN. “I love America. That’s why I’m doing this.”

As people have began to understand Kaepernick’s message, others have shown support for him. Safety Eric Reid joined Kaepernick in sitting out the national anthem, which kills any narrative that suggests that Kaepernick is a distraction. Women’s soccer player Megan Rapinoe, recently kneeled for the national anthem. She admitted Kaepernick’s bold statement influenced her and she wanted to show her support.

Maybe people are just buying Kaepernick’s jersey so that they can burn it. Perhaps someone should check on the sales of lighter fluid. Whatever the reason is, Kaepernick’s jerseys are ironically financially helping the same league that has compared him to a guy who murdered a pregnant woman.