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Former Green Beret: Anthem Protests Have Become About Who Wins The Argument

Colin Kaepernick #7 and Eric Reid #35 of the San Francisco 49ers kneel in protest during the national anthem prior to playing the Los Angeles Rams in their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California

(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

David Hookstead Sports And Entertainment Editor
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Former Green Beret and football player Nate Boyer thinks the anthem protests are no longer about issues, but about who wins the argument.

Boyer, who played at the University of Texas and the Seattle Seahawks, wrote a letter for ESPN explaining how he sees the division in America.

He wrote in part:

Today it feels like this national divide isn’t even really about the anthem, or the flag, or kneeling, or sitting, or fists in the air. It’s not about President Donald Trump, it’s not about Colin Kaepernick, it’s not about the military, or even police brutality. It feels like it’s about winning. That’s what makes America so great, our sheer competitiveness. We’re winners, and we won’t quit until victory is ours.

Now I don’t pretend to speak for everyone who fought overseas, many veterans rightfully disagree with my position. But I do feel that I echo the sentiments of most war fighters when I say that what we hope for more than anything right now in America is unity. To deploy overseas, train, live with, fight alongside, and ultimately defend foreigners that you have little in common with is truly a challenging task. But returning home to a country that is so divided, so judgmental, and so hateful of one another is almost as difficult to deal with as burying a fallen comrade. In fact we’re still losing our brothers in arms overseas right now and it’s hardly mentioned it in the media; but that’s OK, we don’t risk our lives and sacrifice so much for fanfare or recognition. It’s not at all why we do what we do. We do what we do because you are worth it, because we love you.

This isn’t the first time Boyer has gotten involved with the national anthem issue. He had previously met with Colin Kaepernick, and convinced him kneeling during the anthem was more respectful than sitting on the bench.

Boyer’s call for unity comes at a time when the NFL and fans seems more divided than ever, and when President Trump won’t stop getting into it with the league.

I wouldn’t hold your breath until people are united on the anthem issue.

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