Kaepernick Kneels During Anthem, is Joined by Teammate

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick once again did not stand for the National Anthem prior to Thursday night’s preseason game against the San Diego Chargers.

The Niner QB was on one knee during the presentation of the Colors and the singing of the Anthem, as he continued his protest against the oppression of people of color. He was joined by teammate Eric Reid, a fourth-year safety for the team.

According to an NFL.com report, Kaepernick and Reid discussed their joint protest extensively before the game.

“He approached me and said, ‘I support what you’re doing. I support what your message is. Let’s think about how we can do this together,'” Kaepernick said.

“It’s bigger than football, what he’s doing,” Reid told the New York Daily News. “I think it’s worth doing. Taking a knee is worth doing, because it’s people’s lives and issues that are far bigger than the game.”

The protest was met with heavy boos from the fans in San Diego, who jeered each time Kaepernick took the field. Kaepernick started and engineered a touchdown drive on his first possession. Overall, he played three series and went 11-of-18 passing for 103 yards. He also rushed for 38 yards on four carries.

It was a solid game for Kaepernick at a very crucial time. The 49ers must trim their roster from 75 to 53 this weekend. And according to Bleacher Report, league speculation is that Kaepernick could very well be cut.

“I pray that he stays on the team,” Reid said. “But we’ll cross that bridge when it comes, I guess.”

Kaepernick announced after the game that he plans to donate $1 million to community-based charity organizations.

One other NFL player, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane sat for the Anthem on Thursday, prior to his team’s game against the Oakland Raiders.

[image via screengrab]

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