Skip to content

Kaepernick expects mix of cheers, boos in 1st game as starter

Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Colin Kaepernick will start his first game of the year this Sunday when the San Francisco 49ers visit the Buffalo Bills, and he expects there to be mixed feelings among those in the crowd at New Era Field.

It will be the first time Kaepernick will be the starting quarterback for a game since he began kneeling during the playing of the national anthem. There are many across the United States who don't agree with his method of protesting the treatment of people of color - specifically with regards to police brutality - but Kaepernick has his share of supporters as well, including many fellow NFL players.

"Well I think there's going to be a lot of people rooting for me as well," Kaepernick said Wednesday in a conference call, according to Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News.

"I think a lot of people are rooting against me because of what my stance is, what I believe in, and the people and injustice I'm fighting for. You know, it's sad that they don't feel the empathy or compassion that other people should have the same rights, same justices, and be treated the same way as them."

Kaepernick has said he's received death threats from those who disagree with his decision not to stand during the national anthem. The spotlight on him will only grow now that his play will also be watched and scrutinized by millions.

Rex Ryan, coach of the opposing Bills, said Kaepernick should expect to be booed by the Buffalo crowd on Sunday, but not because of his social stance.

"They'll probably boo him or whatever, but this community loves their team, and they support our team 100 percent," Ryan said.

"Whether it's Colin Kaepernick or the left guard or whoever, it makes no difference. Anybody wearing a 49ers uniform, they're going to boo."

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox