Where Colin Kaepernick is scoring big
Here’s an unexpected side effect of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s controversial decision to sit during the national anthem to protest what he sees as oppression against African-Americans and other people of color: Sales of his jersey have skyrocketed.
49ers’ jerseys with Kaepernick’s No. 7 are the top seller on the NFL’s e-commerce site, NFL Shop, and on the team’s merchandise page. According to ESPN.com, more Kaepernick gear was sold last week on the 49ers’ site than in the past eight months combined. The surge is remarkable given that Kaepernick is beginning the season as a backup behind Blaine Gabbert.
In addition to outselling the team’s starting quarterback, Kaepernick’s jersey has more buyers than Joe Montana’s, who led the 49ers to four Super Bowls. It’s more popular than Philadelphia Eagles rookie quarterback Carson Wentz, who is due to make his NFL debut this Sunday versus the Cleveland Browns, and Ezekiel Elliott, the Dallas Cowboys’ first-year running back who’s already being touted as a possible Rookie of the Year.
According to CBS Sports, Kaepernick’s jerseys were on clearance last December because many fans thought the 49ers would release him with the arrival of new coach Chip Kelly, but Kelly decided to keep him around.
Kaepernick’s stance has earned him boos from some fans and support from others. Teammate safety Eric Reid joined Kaepernick in his protest, while U.S. women’s soccer star Megan Rapinoe kneeled while the national anthem was being played before her game to show her solidarity. Kaepernick recently announced plans to donate $1 million to communities in need.
President Obama even weighed in on the controversy, arguing that the 28-year-old was entitled to express his views even though some consider them to be offensive. According to CBS Sports, Kaepernick receives a $125,00 bonus for every game that he’s on the 49ers’ active roster. He signed a six-year, $126 million contract with the team in 2014.
In recent comments to the press, Kaepernick has denied that he’s anti-American. “I love America,” he said, “That’s why I’m doing this.”