Brian Urlacher criticized Colin Kaepernick for anthem protest

Brian Urlacher, former NFL star, spoke out sharply about Colin Kaepernick’s protest during the U.S. national anthem in 2016. In an interview on «The Craig Carton Show», - Urlacher, who played for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons, noted that he could not tolerate such behavior in the locker room.

Urlacher emphasized that racial discord within the team is unacceptable and can negatively impact its performance. He added that it would be extremely difficult for him to accept Kaepernick’s decision to kneel, which could have become a «line in the sand» for him.

Kaepernick, who was the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers at the time, protested against police brutality and racial inequality by taking a knee during the anthem. He explained his action by consulting with former soldier and NFL player Nate Boyer, who suggested this form of protest.

Urlacher also recalled that after the protests began, he and his wife stopped watching football for several years, as they could not support what was happening. Kaepernick, for his part, continues to stand by his decision, despite believing it cost him his NFL career.