Alvin Kamara backs up Vols over racial justice opinions amid some fan criticism

The Tennessee Volunteers want to be supported off the field, not just while they’re scoring touchdowns.

The role of an athlete in modern society is rapidly evolving, even at the collegiate level. Amid protests all over the country in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, several Tennessee Volunteers players have been outspoken regarding racial inequality and police brutality. While most Vols fans accept these players as their own, some have failed to understand why they’d wish to publicize their off-field opinions.

In a powerful statement on Monday, wide receiver Josh Palmer made it very clear that if fans have an issue with their platform, they should feel free to relinquish their support for Rocky Top until they can see eye-to-eye.

Former Vols and New Orleans Saints RB Alvin Kamara backed up Josh Palmer and Trey Smith on Twitter.

“At this point, any fans out there, if you guys don’t support us as human beings, don’t come to the games. Because I’d rather have nobody in the stands then a bunch of fakes who pretend to like us because we entertain them,” Palmer said.

Palmer’s statement ruffled some feathers, especially among those Tennessee fans who disagree with his cause and have supported the team for many years. Suggesting that they suddenly bail on the Orange and White may seem harsh, but as we try to move forward as a nation, it’s fair for Palmer and his teammates to want to be valued as more than just entertainment. Jeremy Pruitt, for one, has stood with his players every step of the way.

Kamara spent the 2015 and 2016 college football seasons in Knoxville before being drafted by the Saints in 2017. As one of the more successful former Vols in the NFL today, his voice comes with some influence. By throwing it behind these brave student-athletes, he brings even more attention to their stance moving forward.

After centuries of convenient ignorance, it’s time all Vols fans listen to the likes of Palmer and Smith. Their cause, and poise, is as helpful as ever right now.

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