It was four years ago when Colin Kaepernick took a storm of criticism for kneeling during the national anthem in protest of protest police brutality and inequality against the black community. Yet, there is a new unrest sweeping through the nation following the death of George Floyd while in custody of Minneapolis Police Department. The NFL players seemingly are not staying quiet this go around, including Washington Redskins running back Adrian Peterson.
Talking to reporters during a charity event in Texas, Peterson said “without a doubt” he will take a knee before games during the upcoming NFL Season.
In 2016, Kaepernick didn’t receive much support. The following season, the number of players kneeling increased. However, the NFL owners scrambled to calm critics by pushing back at players choosing to kneel. Additionally, TV partners opted not to show the national anthem before games.
Kaepernick’s bravery ultimately cost him a great deal. As he has yet to be signed by a team following the 2016 season. He sued the league for collusion shortly afterwards.
The owners’ push back helped wane the players’ protests. But the death of Floyd has sparked a new level of outrage. Players around the league have opted not to remain silent.
Thus, Peterson anticipates there will be much more unity in protesting the social injustice against Afro-Americans.
If Adrian Peterson and players opt to kneel, how will the NFL respond?
Earlier this week, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell admitted the league was “wrong for not listening” to the players before. He added the league is encouraging its players to speak out and peacefully protest.
