[wibbitz id=”b8345d459843b428995a22cff349bfbf2″]
Linebacker Brandon Marshall kneeled during the national anthem before the NFL’s season opener between the Broncos and Panthers on Thursday evening, protesting social injustice in America.
Although Marshall made it clear after the game that he was not protesting the military, police, or America, he has faced backlash for his decision.
The latest development: Air Academy Federal Credit Union has dropped their endorsement deal with the 26-year-old defender.
Though not everyone had a positive response to the linebacker’s protest, Broncos coach Gary Kubiak spoke positively about Marshall on Friday.
“He’s a great kid,” Kubiak said at a press conference. “Has always done his job. He has the right to his beliefs. I am going to keep focus on football.”
During the 21-20 win over Carolina, Denver released a statement about Marshall’s protest.
“While we encourage members of our organization to stand during the national anthem, we understand and respect it being a personal decision,” the team said Thursday evening.
Marshall has said that he plans to continue kneeling in future games.
