Adrian Peterson Says He and Other NFL Players Plan to Kneel During National Anthem This Season

Adrian Peterson will be one of many to make political statements on the field this season.
Adrian Peterson will be one of many to make political statements on the field this season. / Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Colin Kaepernick's decision to kneel during the National Anthem in 2016 was meet with widespread criticism, resulting in his departure from the NFL. But in 2020, following the tragic killing of George Floyd, many of the league's players are bound to take a knee once again.

One player to do so will be Washington Redskins RB Adrian Peterson, and based on his latest comments, he will not be the alone in his decision either.

Peterson's remarks come as no surprise following the extensive support of Black communities in America from the NFL, teams and players. The league and its individual teams have released statements, while countless players have protested either in the streets or on social media.

Whereas Kaepernick was in the minority in 2016, kneeling may very well become the majority in the future, evident in Peterson's comment: "We're all getting ready to take a knee together."

Peterson was also asked about any possible punishments for kneeling, offering an insightful response, saying, "If not playing football is going to help us save lives and change things then that's just what it has to be."

This is also not the first sign of Peterson's efforts to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Peterson and his wife released a joint statement responding to Floyd's death on behalf of their Peterson Family Foundation, emphasizing their commitment to contributing to the fight against racial injustice.

Many are expecting the field to become a home for peaceful protests this coming NFL season and that looks all the more likely following Peterson's words.