Jim Brown is not the only legendary NFL running back who disagrees with national anthem protests as a form of political demonstration.
In a wide-ranging interview with Tim Graham of the Buffalo News, O.J. Simpson said he does not feel that kneeling during the national anthem is an effective way of protesting racial inequality.
“I think Colin made a mistake,” Simpson said. “I really appreciate what he was trying to say. I thought he made a bad choice in attacking the flag.
“I grew up at a time when deacons were in the KKK. I don’t disrespect the Bible because of those guys. The flag shouldn’t be disrespected because of what cops do. The flag represents what we want America to be.”
Simpson said he believes Kaepernick’s biggest mistake was continuing to kneel after he sparked such a polarizing debate.
“When he did it the first time, I thought, ‘Well, you took a gamble, and I give you credit.’ But it was him continuing to do it where he made the biggest mistake,” he added. “I’m a firm believer of doing what you think is right, but I would always stand for the flag.”
As we mentioned, Brown took a very strong stance against national anthem protests but later backed down a bit. Simpson chose his words more carefully, but the overall message was very similar.
