Marshawn Lynch

Marshawn Lynch comments on Colin Kaepernick anthem protest

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

Retired NFL running back Marshawn Lynch says he supports San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick after he took a knee during the playing of the national anthem to call attention to the country's racial injustices.

Lynch appeared on Tuesday's night episode of "Conan" and was asked by host Conan O'Brien about his thoughts on Kaepernick.

“With what’s going on, I’d rather see him take a knee than stand up, put his hands up and get murdered,” Lynch said. “My take on it is s--t, they got to start somewhere."

Kaepernick says he will donate money to various organizations and will continue to kneel during the national anthem until there is significant change. Kaepernick said Tuesday that he has received death threats because of his stance and for kneeling for the anthem.

“I just hope people open up their eyes and see that there’s really a problem going on and something needs to be done for it to stop,” he added. "If you're really not racist, then you won't see what he's doing as a threat to America."

- Scooby Axson

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Marshawn Lynch

San Francisco 49ers

National Football League