Colin Kaepernick's Jersey Sales Skyrocket After National Anthem Protest

Photo via PhilliesFan136/Flickr.

San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s decision not to stand for the national anthem during NFL games has ignited a huge debate across the country. Many have protested his decision by burning his jersey or booing him when he takes the field. While many others have been inspired by his controversial actions to raise awareness about the oppression faced by minorities in this country.

Now many are showing their support for Kaepernick and those facing oppression by wearing his football jersey. In fact, Kaepernick’s jersey is currently the hottest selling jersey in the NFL’s online store. Kaepernick’s sales have eclipsed those of Eagles’ starting quarterback Carson Wentz and Dallas Cowboys’ rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott. Not too shabby for a second-string quarterback whose team is ranked last in ESPN’s most recent NFL power rankings.

via Twitter

“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’s Steve Wyche. “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.”