Chargers RB Justin Jackson Says NFL Players May Not Kneel if They Feel They're Being Listened to
By Michael Luciano
Los Angeles Chargers running back Justin Jackson, who hasn't been shy about expressing his political and social beliefs on Twitter, is one of the many NFL players aligning himself with Colin Kaepernick and those fighting for social justice across the country. The recent uptick in protests could convince dozens of NFL players to take a knee during the National Anthem when the season gets started.
Jackson thinks that players kneeling, the same form of protest made popular by Kaepernick, might not resort to doing so if they feel like their grievances are being heard and fixed.
Chargers RB Justin Jackson says Colin Kaepernick should feel 'vindicated' - via @ESPN App https://t.co/2JacludQYU
— ISBELL-ON-A-MISSION (@IsbellMission) June 11, 2020
"I don't know if kneeling will have the most net positive outcome because of the way it's such a hyperpartisan issue, really because they don't want to talk about the real issue," Jackson said via ESPN. "Nevertheless, I think if we just use our platforms like we are now to continue to expose and advocate for the change we want to see in society, that might be the best method going forward. But we'll see.''
Jackson, who figures to see an increased role in 2020 as the backup behind Austin Ekeler and ahead of rookie Joshua Kelley, claims that head coach Anthony Lynn has been extremely supportive of his players, which means a lot to a Chargers team that is clearly very passionate about social justice.
#Chargers RB Justin Jackson appreciates how supportive head coach Anthony Lynn has been of the social uprising over police brutality. Jackson says GM Tom Telesco has expressed support to the players as well.
— Jason B. Hirschhorn (@by_JBH) June 10, 2020
"It obviously means a lot to the guys who have lived it."
NFL players across the country, including Jackson, are continuing to do everything they can to try and make a difference.