Kaepernick anthem protests gain support

NFL star Colin Kaepernick’s protests against the treatment of African Americans by US police has garnered some extra support.

Kaepernick, who sent shockwaves through US society by refusing to stand for the playing of the US national anthem during San Francisco 49ers pre-season games, continued his stance when the Niners took on the San Diego Chargers.

All eyes were going to be on Kaepernick, especially considering the match was the Chargers’ annual ''Salute to the Military'' night.

Kaepernick stood during the military appreciation ceremony before kneeling for the US anthem, an act in which he wasn't alone.

Teammate Eric Reid followed Kaepernick's stance – and the pair were embraced by several teammates after the anthem concluded.

The 49ers-Chargers match wasn't the only one in which a player didn't stand during the anthem. Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane also sat during the rendition of the Star Spangled Banner before his team’s match against the Oakland Raiders.

With the NFL regular season starting next weekend, the issue surrounding Kaepernick is sure to remain a hot topic.