Report: Kaepernick to stand for anthem next season

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick will stand during the national anthem next season, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports, citing sources.

Kaepernick reportedly believes he succeeded in communicating his message on a national level. As such, continuing to kneel would detract from the positive change that has been created.

The 29-year-old drew worldwide attention for his decision to kneel during the anthem in 2016 in protest of social and racial inequality. Several of his teammates, as well as players on teams across the league and in other sports, followed suit. Others chose to stand for the anthem but raise a fist in solidarity.

With Kaepernick reportedly set to opt out of his contract with the San Francisco 49ers and hit free agency, clearing the air about his intentions for the anthem next season could remove a roadblock between Kaepernick and finding his next team.