Colin Kaepernick’s refusal to stand during performances of the National Anthem has made him one of the most polarizing figures now playing in the NFL.
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San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick stands on the field before their NFL pre-season football game against the Denver Broncos in San Francisco, California, U.S. August 8, 2013.
The NFL Shop best sellers list shows Kaepernick’s jersey as the No. 1 seller. The only player in the National Football League selling more jerseys than Kaepernick right now is Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott.
The jersey was on clearance at the end of last season, as the backup quarterback was coming off a disgusting year with the team.
Sales of Kaepernick’s jerseys skyrocketed over the week following the quarterback’s protest action.
While speaking after the G20 Summit in Hangzhou, China, the president said that the 49ers quarterback is “exercising his constitutional right” by not standing during the national anthem for his team’s preseason games in protest against racial injustice in the country.
The NFL has released a comment, saying that players are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the national anthem.
Seattle Seahawks defensive back Jeremy Lane and Seattle Reign FC soccer star Megan Rapinoe have also refused to stand during the national anthem. This time though, teammate Eric Reid joined him on one knee.
Over the weekend, J.Cole and Trey Songz showed signs of support for Kaepernick by sporting his jersey during their respective performances.
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News of the surge in Kaepernick’s jersey sales was met with a flurry of activity on social media.
