(Photo) NFL: Brandon Marshall Explains Why He’s Ending His National Anthem Protest

Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall has decided to end his national anthem protest and will stand when the Star Spangled Banner is played for the rest of the season.  Marshall was one of the first NFL players to join Colin Kaepernick’s protest, and said he would be taking a knee during the anthem to “raise awareness for social injustice and to start a conversation about what all of us can do to make a positive change.”

After he began his protest, Marshall lost two endorsement deals.  He said he knew it would happen but didn’t care because of the importance of what he’s fighting for.

Marshall explained his decision to call off the protest on Instagram before the Broncos vs. Raiders game Sunday night, saying that everything is not perfect, but he’s “encouraged with the many productive discussions and progress that has taken place with the Denver Police department.”  Marshall says he will continue to work and support organizations that are trying to make a difference in the community.

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For the 1st half of the season, I’ve been taking a knee for the National Anthem to raise awareness for social injustice and to start conversation about what all of us can do to make a positive change. I’m encouraged with the many productive discussions and progress that has taken place as the Denver Police department has decided to review its use of force policy. I’m proud to have joined so many of my peers throughout sports who’ve also made their own statements. Going forward, I will be standing for the National Anthem—not because everything is perfect, or because I’m changing my stance on things. But because of my hope for what we can become. Just because I am standing doesn’t mean the work will end. There’s much work to be done. I’ll continue to recognize and support organizations that are stepping up as leaders and making a real difference in our community, and I will do my part to be there for those in need. One of those organizations is the Idriss Stelley Foundation, a grassroots organization in the Bay Area that offer free support to victims of police violence. I’ll be standing for them and the family of the late O’Shaine Evans—on Sunday night in addition to making a donation from my Tackle Change program to further the meaningful work of this group. I really appreciate the support from my family, teammates, coaches and fans. I’m grateful for those who have taken the time to hear me out. I’m excited for what all of us can accomplish when we truly work together.

A photo posted by Brandon Marshall (@bmarshh54) on Nov 6, 2016 at 3:21pm PST