The majority of NFL owners and players have come out in support of those who protest social injustice during the national anthem in the wake of President Donald Trump's criticism.
However, while Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe said he believes people have the right to protest in a statement Sunday, he also called the anthem "maybe the wrong platform" and questioned why those who don't believe the United States is the greatest country in the world continue to stay.
Wolfe's full statement reads as follows, according to ESPN's Josina Anderson:
I stand because I respect the men who died in real battle so I have the freedom to battle on the field. Paying tribute to the men and women who have given their lives for our freedom is why I stand. But everyone these days likes to find a reason to protest and that’s their right. It's America and you are free to speak your mind. I just feel it's disrespectful to the ones who sacrificed their lives and it's maybe the wrong platform. But like I said to each their own it's AMERICA! The greatest country in the world and if you don't think we are the greatest country in the world and you reside here, then why do you stay? A lot worse places in the world to call home. Proud to be an American.
Wolfe's teammate, linebacker Brandon Marshall, was one of the major protesters from the 2016 season.
