Kaepernick protest prompts backlash from NFL greats

By Amy Tennery

NEW YORK, Aug 30 ( Reuters) - San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick's sideline protest during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at a National Football League pre-season game last week has generated criticism from current and former NFL stars.

Kaepernick, 28, sat during the national anthem on Friday in a protest against racial injustice in the United States, a move that prompted boos from some fans.

Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward wrote in an Instagram post Tuesday that while he can "respect" Kaepernick's cause, he doesn't "agree with the method he chose."

"If you want to make a point or take a stand, go straight after the root of that cause," wrote Ward. "Don't disrespect the whole country or the organization that's paying you millions of dollars."

Jerry Rice, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame who won three Super Bowl championships while with the 49ers, wrote on Twitter Monday that Kaepernick should not "disrespect the flag."

"All lives matter. So much going on in this world today. Can we all just get along!" tweeted the former wide receiver and 20-year veteran of the league, adding that he respects Kaepernick's "stance."

New Orleans' Saints quarterback Drew Brees tweeted Monday, "I agree with his protest, I DON'T agree w his METHOD."

That said, Kaepernick did attract some unqualified support.

Hall of Famer Jim Brown said on the TV program "NFL Total Access" that he supports Kaepernick's stance.

"I think Pandora's box is open," Brown said. "I'm very happy that it is."

When reached by e-mail for comment, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said that NFL players "are encouraged but not required to stand" for the natiional anthem.

The San Francisco 49ers, which previously released a statement in support of Kaepernick, declined to comment further.

The team is scheduled to play Thursday against the San Diego Chargers in its final pre-season matchup.

(Reporting By Amy Tennery; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)