Colin Kaepernick Flag Protest Update: NFL Quarterback To Stand For National Anthem In 2017

NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who became a divisive figure after he began kneeling in protest during pre-game national anthems, will not continue his protest for the 2017 season, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Thursday.

Kaepernick began his protest against police brutality and racial injustice during a preseason game last year as a member of the San Francisco 49ers. Kaepernick continued his protest throughout the year, and was joined by both teammates and players throughout the NFL. His protest was copied by football players and whole teams at the youth, high school and college levels, as well as players in other sports. It also prompted a backlash from some police groups.

Schefter's report comes just a day after it was reported that Kaepernick's agent had informed all 32 NFL teams that his client would enter free agency, turning down a $14.5 million salary from the 49ers in order to test the market for a long-term deal.

"Ultimately, it's to bring awareness and show people what's really going on in this country," Kaepernick said about his protest. "There are a lot of things that are going on that are unjust and that people aren't being held accountable for. That's something that needs to change. This country stands for freedom, justice and liberty for all. And it's not happening for all right now."

Kaepernick said during the season that he would continue his protest until he saw the change he wanted. In addition to kneeling during the national anthem, Kaepernick also pledged to donate $1 million of his 2016 salary and all proceeds from sales of his jersey to organizations working in oppressed communities.

Kaepernick has donated to the Black Youth Project 100, Mothers Against Police Brutality, Communities United for Police Reform, and the I Will Not Die Young Campaign, among others, ESPN-owned sports site The Undefeated reported.