SANTA CLARA – Colin Kaepernick has been in the national spotlight for nearly two months. Now, the attention on him takes a different turn as he becomes the 49ers’ starting quarterback.
Coach Chip Kelly has consistently supported Kaepernick’s movement to bring attention to racial inequalities.
Kaepernick has received praise for his role in leading the national movement. He has also been widely condemned for his protest, which includes kneeling during the playing of the national anthem.
"I've had conversations with Kap,” Kelly said on Thursday. “I know he's got a lot going on on his plate and I think part of that is making sure that he understands that people do support him in terms of where he is and what he stands for and what the things are.
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“I think sometimes he's very misunderstood. I think people's reaction toward what he's trying to do is very misunderstood. But I think Colin has a clear heart and a clear vision of what he's trying to get accomplished and I support that."
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Kelly recently said Kaepernick is “shedding light on a heinous situation.” On Thursday, Kelly reaffirmed his support of Kaepernick, who was promoted to the team’s starting job this week for Sunday’s game at the Buffalo Bills.
"There are people that are dying senselessly – both police officers and citizens of this country,” Kelly said. “And if you don't see that, then I think you're either blind or ignorant.
“There's a huge issue going on in this country and I don't think anybody can say that they think it's OK. I don't think you're going to get that from anybody and that's just what I meant. There's a lot of senseless things going on in this nation that need to be addressed. So I support his take on that."
