“No political views, he just hasn’t been effective. He’s regressing as a player. I'd be shocked if he’s on this roster by the end of this year. He may not be on it in the next two weeks.”
Kaepernick drew controversy for sitting during the National Anthem before a preseason game on Friday. He refused to stand during the first two preseason games, but he wasn’t dressed to play and wasn’t noticed by the national media, it has been noted.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” Kaepernick told NFL Media following the game. “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”
He’s drawn significant backlash for his actions, including fans burning his jersey. The 49ers, in a statement, said the team won’t force him to stand.
“The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pregame ceremony,” a statement from the team read, according to ESPN. “It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens.
“In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose to participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem.”
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