Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall knelt during the national anthem on the NFL's opening night, showing his clear support for San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and his protest against American racial injustice and minority oppression.

Marshall was later removed from the game, but not because of his protest. He got up slowly after making a tackle and, as required by NFL concussion protocol, tested for any issues. He was then taken to the locker room.

Kaepernick has officially started a trend.

His teammate, Eric Reid, notably joined him in kneeling through the national anthem in their final preseason game last week.

Jeremy Lane of the Seattle Seahawks also sat through the national anthem last week.

Other Seahawks players plan on joining in as well.

“It’s going to be a team thing. That’s what the world needs to see. The world needs to see people coming together versus being individuals,” Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin said.

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (left) attempts a pass during the second half of an NFL game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Atlanta.
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