Eric Reid

San Francisco 49ers: Safety Eric Reid Explains Why He's Kneeling During National Anthem

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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San Francisco 49ers safety Eric Reid joined quarterback Colin Kaepernick in taking a knee in protest during the national anthem during the Niners final preseason game versus the San Diego Chargers. Reid recently described why he followed in Kap’s footsteps.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick isn’t the only member of the team to participate in the kneel-down protest during the pregame national anthem.

During the final Niners preseason game against the San Diego Chargers, safety Eric Reid also took a knee alongside Kaepernick.

While Reid’s actions drew both praise and criticism alike, Reid feels as if the message is the true reason why such actions are being taken.

Reid took to Twitter on Saturday to explain why he was doing this.

“My goal is to bring awareness to issues of our country and helping to effectuate positive changes for the betterment of our communities,” Reid posted on Twitter. “In kneeling, I hope to accomplish that goal and relate the act to that of the flag being at half mast.

“In times or remembrance of great suffering, tragedy or moments of significance, our nation honors those instances by lowering its most revered symbol to half mast.”

Take a look at what Reid had to post here:

Kaepernick initially took a seat on the bench during the 49ers third preseason game versus the Green Bay Packers. However former US Army Green Beret and free-agent long-snapper Nate Boyer convinced Kap to take a knee instead of simply sitting on the sidelines.

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Reid subsequently joined Kaepernick in San Diego.

The protest has resulted in both support and anger alike.

But one thing is for certain — the discussion is on the table.

All statistics, records and accolades courtesy of ESPN.com, Pro-Football-Reference.com and Sports-Reference.com unless otherwise indicated.

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Eric Reid

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