Colin Kaepernick has plenty of people on his side after his much talked about public protest against the national anthem.
USA Today reports Kaepernick’s 49ners No. 7 jersey is now the top selling Niners jersey on the roster. It also surpasses other popular items on the NFL site like Philadelphia Eagles’ Carson Wentz’s and Dallas Cowboys Ezekiel Elliott’s draft pick jerseys. Previously, the jersey was the sixth selling from the team and No. 20 on the NFL’s site. Kaepernick, 28, faced national attention after he refused to stand for The Star-Spangled Banner during a preseason game against the Green Bay Packers. Since then, Kaepernick has stayed seated for two games. Eric Reid who plays safety for the 49ers, joined Kaepernick during his second protest last week.
On Monday during the G20 Summit (Sept. 5,) President Barack Obama defended the player’s right to protest. “He’s exercising his constitutional right to make a statement,” he said. “I think there is a long history of athletes doing so.” In addition to plenty of parents and fans purchasing his jersey, J.Cole and Trey Songz repped Kaepernick over Labor Day weekend.
When asked about his continued stance on police violence and brutality against people of color, the player explained that he isn’t turning his back on America. “I’m not anti-American,” Kaepernick said after the game. “I love America. That’s why I’m doing this.”