Biggest NFL Controversies Through the Years: Deflategate, Protests and More
usmagazine.comFlag on the play. From Tom Brady’s Deflategate to Colin Kaepernick’s national anthem protests, the NFL has been at the center of several controversies through the years.In 2016, Kaepernick sparked debates among both fans and fellow players when he didn’t stand for the national anthem before taking the field with the San Francisco 49ers.
At the time, the athlete’s peaceful protest was largely criticized, but he explained his point of view in August of that year.“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color,” he said in an interview with NFL Media. “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.”When Kaepernick began his demonstrations, Black Lives Matter protests were breaking out across the United States in response to police brutality incidents, such as the death of Philando Castile.
The quarterback’s team issued a statement addressing his decision to kneel, highlighting a person’s individual rights.“The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pre-game ceremony,” the 49ers noted. “It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens.
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