49ers QB Colin Kaepernick is trying to win back his starting job. (Photo: Kyle Terada, USA TODAY Sports) 
 
 Now is not the time to demonize Colin Kaepernick. 
 
 Instead, this is an opportunity to listen to his heart. 
 
 The San Francisco 49ers quarterback has taken a stand by refusing to stand for the national anthem, a not-so-subtle admonishment of the country amid his courageous social statement protesting perceived injustices of police brutality that have touched so many African-Americans and other minorities. 
 
 “I’ll continue to sit,” Kaepernick, 28, told reporters in the locker room Sunday, two days after his demonstration exploded as another case of sports transcending society. 
 
 “I’ll continue to stand with the people who are being oppressed. To me, this is something that has to change, and when there’s significant change — and I feel like that flag represents what It’s supposed to represent, and this country is representing people the way it’s supposed to — I’ll stand.” 
 
 More power to him. 
 
 After sitting on the bench as the anthem was played before a Friday night exhibition against the Green Bay Packers (Kaepernick sat out The Star Stangled Banner in the Niners' two previous preseason games, too, when he wasn't in uniform) told NFL Network's Steve Wyche that he refused to “show pride in the flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.” 
 
 Referring to recent slayings of African-Americans by police that have sparked racial tensions, protests and other forms of backlash across the nation, which has historically tilted the scales of the criminal justice system so unfavorably against minorities, Kaepernick lamented that it would be selfish not to protest. 
 
 "There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder,” he said. 
 
 In the face of intense criticism, including some fans who have responded by burning his jersey, Kaepernick doubled down Sunday after a meeting in which the issue was discussed with teammates — and most supported his First Amendment right to express himself. 
 
 The embattled quarterback calmly spoke for roughly 20 minutes afterward, hardly afraid to face the heat or dodge the opportunity to explain himself in further detail. He maintained that he wanted to bring awareness to an issue. Mission accomplished. 
 
 “This country stands for liberty, freedom, justice for all,” he said. “And it’s not happening for all right now.” 
 
 Agree with his methods or not, Kaepernick is a fresh example showing that the Constitution applies to all Americans — including those in football uniforms. The way I see it, Kaepernick just earned a lot of street cred for at least standing up for something that he’s obviously passionate about — knowing full well there could be a political price to pay. 
 
 Somewhere, Muhammad Ali is smiling. 
 
 “I have to stand up for people that are oppressed,” Kaepernick told Wyche. “If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right.” 
 
 There’s no NFL policy mandating players to stand up during the anthem. In a text message, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said “players are encouraged to stand but not required.” 
 
 Niners coach Chip Kelly isn’t slamming Kaepernick, either, maintaining: “We recognize his right to express his feelings.” 
 
 There are many societal issues and causes that any of us can choose to protest, yet Kaepernick has chosen to focus on police brutality. This is consistent with disgust he expressed in early July when police in Baton Rouge shot Alton Sterling to death after he was thrown to the ground by two officers. On social media, Kaepernick wrote, “This is what lynchings look like in 2016!” 
 
 It’s striking that Kaepernick, who played his first game in 292 days Friday even as numerous injuries have left him little chance of winning the starting job, is suddenly evoking the spirit of John Carlos and Tommie Smith, U.S. track athletes who protested conditions of African-Americans on the grand stage of the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City by raising black-gloved fists during the anthem. 
 
 Not popular. 
 
 The people so willing to dump on Kaepernick for making his expression public are conveniently denying him the respect that he deserves to do just that. America isn’t perfect. And many have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the country's ideals. 
 
 Kaepernick insists his actions are not meant to disrespect the military. Instead, he believes, “People are dying in vain because this country is not holding up their end of the bargain up, as far as giving liberty, freedom and justice to everybody.” 
 
 American values. Like equality. Like the right to call ourselves out. 
 
 Kaepernick has reminded us of that. 
 
 *** 
 
 Follow NFL columnist Jarrett Bell on Twitter @JarrettBell 
 
 PHOTOS: NFL preseason action 

 Oh, Colin. ... It was a noble thought. But not the right place for it. 
 
 The 49ers’ once promising quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, finds himself in the middle of a full-tilt firestorm after sitting down during the national anthem before Friday night’s preseason game at Levi’s Stadium. 
 
 The criticism is coming from all sides, and there will be little in the way of shelter. 
 
 Kaepernick explained his actions to NFL Network, saying it was a conscious protest in support of black civil rights and specifically mentioning police shootings. And it says here that every American has the right to protest in a peaceful and respectful fashion. 
 
 But Kaepernick’s protest feels misplaced, the latest in a string of incidents that point to poor judgment and a career gone wrong. 
 
 A cynic might say the disgruntled quarterback was simply trying to get out of town. It’s no secret that Kaepernick requested a trade in the offseason. His relationship with management is in tatters. And his miserable performance on the field against the Packers on Friday pretty much guarantees he’ll start the season as a backup to journeyman Blaine Gabbert. 
 
 Throw in the fact that new head coach Chip Kelly is an ardent supporter of the military, to the point of going on USO tours, and Kaepernick just might get that one-way ticket. 
 
 But there is clearly more going on here. Kaepernick — who is biracial, adopted and raised by white parents — sincerely believes that racial injustice is a prevalent problem in America. It’s hard to argue with him. The numbers don’t lie. Nor do the videos. Friday night, he joined a long list of prominent athletes who have made public demonstrations in support of the African American community, including LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul in the NBA. 
 
 But the quarterback’s tactics in support of equality have been relatively ham-fisted in comparison with his colleagues. Just last week, Kaepernick reportedly retweeted images of the American flag and the Confederate flag, with the following comment: “The fact that you really believe there is difference in these flags means that your [sic] ignoring history.” 
 
 The post was taken down, but the message was clear. And the damage was done. That’s the kind of naive analysis you might expect from a college freshman, just beginning to understand the issues and jumping to simplistic comparisons. Equating the American flag to the Confederate flag is just plain wrong. And sitting out the national anthem will only draw scorn. 
 
 Kaepernick is fighting the good fight. But he’s using the wrong weapons. 
 
 It’s a damn shame, too. Whenever the 49ers’ quarterback finds himself in some controversy — and it sure seems like a regular occurrence — I always think back to the thoughtful young man we first met when he visited the Bay Area as a collegian, playing his last game for the University of Nevada in a bowl game at AT&T Park. 
 
 He was a revelation. A brilliant athlete on the field who was even more impressive off it. Well-spoken. Intelligent. Devoted to his community, his family, his church. You couldn’t dream up a better young man. His future seemed impossibly bright. 
 
 When the 49ers drafted him a few months later, in spring 2011, few predicted the success he would eventually enjoy on the field. He grabbed the starting job midway through his second season, and Kaepernick’s inspiring performances down the stretch and through the playoffs led San Francisco to the Super Bowl, where they fell just 5 yards short of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. 
 
 He continued his strong play the next couple of seasons, but you could begin to see cracks in Kaepernick’s persona. Surely influenced by mentors like Jim Harbaugh and Randy Moss, the quarterback withdrew from the media. The national press began taking idiotic potshots at him for his tattoos and headphones and attire. It was ridiculous garbage, racially tinged, but it got to him. 
 
 When his body started to fail him, and the 49ers imploded under the weight of a ludicrous power struggle between Harbaugh and upper management, Kaepernick was left alone, taking a beating on the field and in the press. 
 
 The end result is what we see before us today. A talented and intelligent young man who is trying to make sense of a senseless world. The NFL he plays in is rife with hypocrisy, racism, sexism and indifference. The society he lives in is worse. 
 
 So who could blame Kaepernick for this political awakening? He’s been the target of racially motivated criticism on the job. He feels deep empathy for the African American community that is under literal fire in the streets. He’s still a young man (28) who is finding his identity, his place in this world. 
 
 You just wish he would think these things out a bit more. With his fame and his significant financial resources, Kaepernick could empower real change in the movement he champions. 
 
 Sharing hateful messages on social media and sitting out the national anthem will get you plenty of attention, but I’m not sure anyone benefits. 
 
 Here’s hoping that Kaepernick weathers this storm and comes out with a better understanding of how he can use his platform to engender positive change in our society. Hopefully, he learns that giving the racial dividers and the haters more ammunition isn’t the answer. 
 
 Perhaps we’ve seen the best of Colin Kaepernick on the field. Perhaps the best is yet to come off the field. 
 
 Al Saracevic is sports editor of The San Francisco Chronicle. E-mail: asaracevic@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @alsaracevic 
 
 Kaepernick anthem controversy 
 
 “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder. ... This is not something that I am going to run by anybody. I am not looking for approval. I have to stand up for people that are oppressed. ... If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right.” 
 
 — Colin Kaepernick, quoted by NFL.com after Friday night’s game. 
 
 “Players are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the national anthem.” 
 
 — Brian McCarthy, NFL spokesman 
 
 “The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pregame ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens. In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose to participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem.” 

 Angry 49ers fans are burning Colin Kaepernick jerseys in effigy after the quarterback refused to stand for the national anthem before a pre-season game on Friday in protest of racial inequality. They are also likely the same people who believe Muhammad Ali was the greatest of all time, because in America, we love to forget our history. 
 
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 Kaepernick remained seated during the playing of the national anthem because, he said, "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. There are bodies in the street." 
 
 Fans did not take kindly to his protest. "Listen, you ignorant son of a bitch," one man angrily said to the camera while the national anthem plays in the background, "People die every day defending the flag you refuse to stand for." 
 
 He then ceremoniously lit his Kaepernick jersey on fire. 
 
 But those who burn Kaepernick jerseys have forgotten the many athletes in the past who have not participated in the national anthem or other symbols of patriotism to highlight the problems with America. Muhammad Ali famously refused to be drafted to protest the Vietnam War and American racism. He was sentenced to five years in prison, temporarily banned from boxing, and fined $10,000. 
 
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 So if you are criticizing Kaepernick now, but loved Ali, it just shows you really didn't care about what Ali stood for. — Jemele Hill (@jemelehill) August 27, 2016 
 
 Runners Tommie Smith and John Carlos shocked the world when they raised their fists in a black power salute at the 1968 Olympics, creating one of the most iconic moments in Olympic history. 
 
 Getty Images UniversalImagesGroup 
 
 More recently, Mizzou football players went on strike and would not play any games until the university president resigned amid a campus racism scandal. 
 
 And let's not forget we have a presidential candidate whose campaign slogan is Make America Great Again. The key word in that phrase is "again," meaning that America right now is not great. 
 
 You can disagree with Kaepernick's actions, but do not forget the many athletes we call heroes who have come before him. The same Constitutional amendment that allows him to sit in protest during the national anthem also protects your right to call him a "sick son of a bitch." But it doesn't make it right. 

 Photo: Tony Avelar, Associated Press Image 1 of / 52 Caption Close 
 
 Image 1 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick during the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar) San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick during the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar) Photo: Tony Avelar, Associated Press 
 
 Image 2 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick, left, and Blaine Gabbert stand on the sideline during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers on Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. Green Bay won 21-10. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar) less San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick, left, and Blaine Gabbert stand on the sideline during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers on Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, ... more Photo: Tony Avelar, Associated Press 
 
 Image 3 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick answers questions at a news conference after an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. Green Bay won the game 21-10. (AP Photo/Ben Margot) less San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick answers questions at a news conference after an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. Green Bay ... more Photo: Ben Margot, Associated Press 
 
 Image 4 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick answers questions at a news conference after an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. Green Bay won the game 21-10. (AP Photo/Ben Margot) less San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick answers questions at a news conference after an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. Green Bay ... more Photo: Associated Press 
 
 Image 5 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick holds the football during warmups before a preseason NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick holds the football during warmups before a preseason NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) Photo: Associated Press 
 
 Image 6 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick, left, and Blaine Gabbert stand on the sideline during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers on Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, in Santa Clara, Calif. Green Bay won 21-10. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar) less San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick, left, and Blaine Gabbert stand on the sideline during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Green Bay Packers on Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, ... more Photo: Associated Press 
 
 Image 7 of 52 Quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick (7) and Christian Ponder (5) of the San Francisco 49ers are seen on the sideline during the second quarter of his NFL preseason game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. on Friday, Aug. 26, 2016. less Quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick (7) and Christian Ponder (5) of the San Francisco 49ers are seen on the sideline during the second quarter of his NFL preseason game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium ... more Photo: Special To The Chronicle 
 
 Image 8 of 52 Colin Kaepernick (7) smiled as the last seconds ticked off for a 49er victory Sunday January 12, 2014. The San Francisco 49ers beat the Carolina Panthers 23-10 in Charlotte, North Carolina to advance to the NFC title game against Seattle. less Colin Kaepernick (7) smiled as the last seconds ticked off for a 49er victory Sunday January 12, 2014. The San Francisco 49ers beat the Carolina Panthers 23-10 in Charlotte, North Carolina to advance to the NFC ... more Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 9 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) tries to get away from Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Stephen Nicholas (54) and defensive tackle Peria Jerry (94) during the first quarter at Candlestick Park on Monday, Dec. 23, 2013 in San Francisco, Calif. less San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) tries to get away from Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Stephen Nicholas (54) and defensive tackle Peria Jerry (94) during the first quarter at Candlestick ... more Photo: Beck Diefenbach, For The Chronicle 
 
 Image 10 of 52 49er quarterback Colin Kaepernick, (7) warming up before the start of the game as the San Francisco 49ers prepare to take on the St. Louis Rams at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Ca., on Sunday Dec. 1, 2013. 49er quarterback Colin Kaepernick, (7) warming up before the start of the game as the San Francisco 49ers prepare to take on the St. Louis Rams at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Ca., on Sunday Dec. 1, 2013. Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 11 of 52 Colin Kaepernick completed a short pass to Frank Gore in the second half. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the St. Louis Rams 23-13 at Candlestick Park Sunday December 1, 2013. Colin Kaepernick completed a short pass to Frank Gore in the second half. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the St. Louis Rams 23-13 at Candlestick Park Sunday December 1, 2013. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 12 of 52 Colin Kaepernick shows off his many tattoos at the 49ers practice facility. Colin Kaepernick shows off his many tattoos at the 49ers practice facility. Photo: Michael Short, Special To The Chronicle 
 
 Image 13 of 52 Kap's enormous back art. Kap's enormous back art. Photo: Michael Short, Special To The Chronicle 
 
 Image 14 of 52 Colin Kaepernick (7) congratulates Vernon Davis in the endzone after his touchdown. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the St. Louis Rams 23-13 at Candlestick Park Sunday December 1, 2013. Colin Kaepernick (7) congratulates Vernon Davis in the endzone after his touchdown. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the St. Louis Rams 23-13 at Candlestick Park Sunday December 1, 2013. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 15 of 52 Seattle's Ricardo Lockette, (left) and 49ers' quarterback Colin Kaepernick, exchange uniforns at the end of the game, as the San Francisco 49ers beat the Seattle Seahawks 19-17, at Candlestick Park on Sunday Dec. 8, 2013, in San Francisco, Ca. less Seattle's Ricardo Lockette, (left) and 49ers' quarterback Colin Kaepernick, exchange uniforns at the end of the game, as the San Francisco 49ers beat the Seattle Seahawks 19-17, at Candlestick Park on Sunday ... more Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 16 of 52 San Francisco's Colin Kaepernick, (7) reacts after further review of a catch by the 49ers Vernon Davis, was ruled a touchdown, during the second quarter as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Carolina Panthers in the NFC divisional playoffs in Charlotte, North Carolina on Sunday Jan. 12, 2014, at Bank of America stadium. less San Francisco's Colin Kaepernick, (7) reacts after further review of a catch by the 49ers Vernon Davis, was ruled a touchdown, during the second quarter as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Carolina Panthers ... more Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 17 of 52 Colin Kaepernick (7) ran over the goal line for a touchdown early in the third quarter Sunday January 12, 2014. Luke Kuechly (59) tried to defend. The San Francisco 49ers beat the Carolina Panthers 23-10 in Charlotte, North Carolina to advance to the NFC title game against Seattle. less Colin Kaepernick (7) ran over the goal line for a touchdown early in the third quarter Sunday January 12, 2014. Luke Kuechly (59) tried to defend. The San Francisco 49ers beat the Carolina Panthers 23-10 in ... more Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 18 of 52 Colin Kaepernick (7) took off for a first down run in the second half Sunday January 19, 2014. The Seattle Seahawks defeated the San Francisco 49ers 23-17 to win the NFC championship and a trip to the Super Bowl at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, Washington. less Colin Kaepernick (7) took off for a first down run in the second half Sunday January 19, 2014. The Seattle Seahawks defeated the San Francisco 49ers 23-17 to win the NFC championship and a trip to the Super ... more Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 19 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) walks off the field after the 49ers defeated the Atlanta Falcons at Candlestick Park on Monday December 23, 2013 in San Francisco, Calif. It is the last home game the 49ers will have at Candlestick Park before the stadium is demolished. less San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) walks off the field after the 49ers defeated the Atlanta Falcons at Candlestick Park on Monday December 23, 2013 in San Francisco, Calif. It is the last ... more Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 20 of 52 49ers qb Colin Kaepernick The San Francisco 49ers play the Jacksonville Jaguars in game two, of the NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday, October 27. 27/10/13, photo: Sean Ryan /NFL 49ers qb Colin Kaepernick The San Francisco 49ers play the Jacksonville Jaguars in game two, of the NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday, October 27. 27/10/13, photo: Sean Ryan /NFL Photo: Sean Ryan, Sean Ryan NFL 
 
 Image 21 of 52 Quarterback Colin Kaepernick puts on his helmet on Nov. 19, 2012, the day of his first NFL start. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick puts on his helmet on Nov. 19, 2012, the day of his first NFL start. Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 22 of 52 Kaepernick relaxing at home in Turlock with his 100-pound pet tortoise Sammy. Kaepernick relaxing at home in Turlock with his 100-pound pet tortoise Sammy. Photo: Kaepernick Family, Courtesy 
 
 Image 23 of 52 Colin Kaepernick celebrates a touchdown with Alex Boone and Joe Staley during a game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on September 30, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Colin Kaepernick celebrates a touchdown with Alex Boone and Joe Staley during a game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on September 30, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo: Jeff Zelevansky, Getty Images 
 
 Image 24 of 52 From his college days: Kaepernick of the Nevada Wolf Pack looks to pass against the UNLV Rebels in the third quarter of their game at Sam Boyd Stadium October 2, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. From his college days: Kaepernick of the Nevada Wolf Pack looks to pass against the UNLV Rebels in the third quarter of their game at Sam Boyd Stadium October 2, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo: Ethan Miller, Getty Images 
 
 Image 25 of 52 Colin Kaepernick was congratulated by the Dolphins Cameron Wake at the end of the game. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Miami Dolphins 27-13 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif. Sunday December 9, 2012. less Colin Kaepernick was congratulated by the Dolphins Cameron Wake at the end of the game. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Miami Dolphins 27-13 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif. Sunday December 9, ... more Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 26 of 52 Kaepernick, seen here when he was a pitcher for the Pitman High School baseball team. He once threw a seven-inning no-hitter while sick with pneumonia. Kaepernick, seen here when he was a pitcher for the Pitman High School baseball team. He once threw a seven-inning no-hitter while sick with pneumonia. Photo: Pitman High School, Courtesy 
 
 Image 27 of 52 Quarterback Colin Kaepernick for a gain in the second quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Chicago Bears at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday November 19, 2012. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick for a gain in the second quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Chicago Bears at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday November 19, 2012. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 28 of 52 Little Colin's now-famous fourth grade essay in which he proclaimed he planned on someday playing for the San Francisco 49ers. Little Colin's now-famous fourth grade essay in which he proclaimed he planned on someday playing for the San Francisco 49ers. Photo: 49ers, Courtesy 
 
 Image 29 of 52 San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) celebrates with coach Jim Harbaugh after a touchdown in the third quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Saturday January 12, 2013. less San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) celebrates with coach Jim Harbaugh after a touchdown in the third quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional ... more Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 30 of 52 Kaepernick in San Francisco: the college QB looks to pass the ball against Boston College during the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl at AT&T; Park on January 9, 2011 in San Francisco, California. Kaepernick in San Francisco: the college QB looks to pass the ball against Boston College during the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl at AT&T; Park on January 9, 2011 in San Francisco, California. Photo: Ezra Shaw, Getty Images 
 
 Image 31 of 52 Colin Kaepernick #10 of the Nevada Wolf Pack throws the ball against Boston College during the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl at AT&T; Park on January 9, 2011 in San Francisco, California. Colin Kaepernick #10 of the Nevada Wolf Pack throws the ball against Boston College during the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl at AT&T; Park on January 9, 2011 in San Francisco, California. Photo: Ezra Shaw, Getty Images 
 
 Image 32 of 52 Kaepernick "Kaepernicks" after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers. Kaepernick "Kaepernicks" after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 33 of 52 Colin Kaepernick calls out to his teammates at the line of scrimmage during the first half of the Seahawks and 49ers game Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012, at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, WA. Colin Kaepernick calls out to his teammates at the line of scrimmage during the first half of the Seahawks and 49ers game Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012, at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, WA. Photo: Jordan Stead, Special To The Chronicle 
 
 Image 34 of 52 Frank Gore and Colin Kaepernick celebrate after scoring a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome on November 25, 2012 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Frank Gore and Colin Kaepernick celebrate after scoring a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome on November 25, 2012 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Photo: Chris Graythen, Getty Images 
 
 Image 35 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick speaks at an NFL football media availability in Santa Clara, Calif., Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013. The 49ers will face the Falcons in the NFC championship game on Sunday. less San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick speaks at an NFL football media availability in Santa Clara, Calif., Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013. The 49ers will face the Falcons in the NFC championship game on ... more Photo: Jeff Chiu, Associated Press 
 
 Image 36 of 52 Colin Kaepernick shares a light moment with Michael Crabtree and Carlos Rogers. Colin Kaepernick shares a light moment with Michael Crabtree and Carlos Rogers. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 37 of 52 Kap walks off the field after defeating the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoff Game at Candlestick Park. Kap walks off the field after defeating the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoff Game at Candlestick Park. Photo: Harry How, Getty Images 
 
 Image 38 of 52 Kaepernick tries to leap away from St. Louis Rams outside linebacker Jo-Lonn Dunbar and defensive end William Hayes, right, during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012, in St. Louis. Kaepernick tries to leap away from St. Louis Rams outside linebacker Jo-Lonn Dunbar and defensive end William Hayes, right, during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012, in St. Louis. Photo: Seth Perlman, Associated Press 
 
 Image 39 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick stands on the sideline in Seattle. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick stands on the sideline in Seattle. Photo: John Froschauer, Associated Press 
 
 Image 40 of 52 More tattoos, mostly of the religious variety. More tattoos, mostly of the religious variety. Photo: Michael Short, Special To The Chronicle 
 
 Image 41 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks on Dec. 23, 2012. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks on Dec. 23, 2012. Photo: John Froschauer, Associated Press 
 
 Image 42 of 52 Quarterback Colin Kaepernick and others gather for prayer following the San Francisco 49ers game against the Miami Dolphins at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday December 9, 2012. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick and others gather for prayer following the San Francisco 49ers game against the Miami Dolphins at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday December 9, 2012. Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 43 of 52 Kaepernick runs in for a touchdown in the third quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Candlestick. Kaepernick runs in for a touchdown in the third quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Candlestick. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 44 of 52 Quarterback Colin Kaepernick runs in a touchdown in the first quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Saturday January 12, 2013. less Quarterback Colin Kaepernick runs in a touchdown in the first quarter of the San Francisco 49ers game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., ... more Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 45 of 52 Kap celebrates at the end of his first postseason start: a resounding victory over the Packers. Kap celebrates at the end of his first postseason start: a resounding victory over the Packers. Photo: Brant Ward, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 46 of 52 Colin Kaepernick scrambles in the fourth quarter under pressure from Israel Idonije. The San Francisco 49ers played the Chicago Bears on November 19 and won 32-7. Colin Kaepernick scrambles in the fourth quarter under pressure from Israel Idonije. The San Francisco 49ers played the Chicago Bears on November 19 and won 32-7. Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez, The Chronicle 
 
 Image 47 of 52 Remember these guys? San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks Jeremiah Masoli, Alex Smith, Colin Kaepernick and McLeod Bethel-Thompson practice during training camp in Santa Clara, Calif., back in 2011. Remember these guys? San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks Jeremiah Masoli, Alex Smith, Colin Kaepernick and McLeod Bethel-Thompson practice during training camp in Santa Clara, Calif., back in 2011. Photo: Jeff Chiu, AP 
 
 Image 48 of 52 Kaepernick calls the play against the New Orleans Saints at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Friday, Aug. 12, 2011. Kaepernick calls the play against the New Orleans Saints at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Friday, Aug. 12, 2011. Photo: Bill Haber, AP 
 
 Image 49 of 52 Kaepernick throws against the Arizona Cardinals at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday December 30, 2012. Kaepernick throws against the Arizona Cardinals at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday December 30, 2012. Photo: Stephen Lam, Special To The Chronicle 
 
 Image 50 of 52 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) is tackled by Green Bay Packers free safety M.D. Jennings (43) and outside linebacker Erik Walden (93) during the second quarter of an NFC divisional playoff NFL football game in San Francisco, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013. less San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) is tackled by Green Bay Packers free safety M.D. Jennings (43) and outside linebacker Erik Walden (93) during the second quarter of an NFC divisional playoff ... more Photo: Marcio Jose Sanchez, Associated Press 
 
 Image 51 of 52 Kap warms up before his first NFL start. The 49ers beat the Chicago Bears 32-7. Kap warms up before his first NFL start. The 49ers beat the Chicago Bears 32-7. Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez, The Chronicle
– San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick declined to stand for the national anthem on Friday rather than "show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people." An "incredible backlash" was predicted, and has followed. The latest: The backlash isn't coming from the 49ers, which said in a statement, "We recognize the right of an individual to choose to participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem." But one-time fans are showing their displeasure by burning Kaepernick jerseys and uploading footage of their fiery ire online. At SFGate, Katie Dowd thinks that's kind of dumb. "If you hate him so much, donate that jersey to Goodwill so someone can at least get use out of a perfectly good shirt." "How easily we forget," opinies Peter Wade at Esquire. He reminds those who are torching their jerseys of the "many athletes in the past who have not participated in the national anthem or other symbols of patriotism to highlight the problems with America." Among them: Muhammad Ali. Writing for the San Francisco Chronicle, Al Saracevic calls Kaepernick's move a "noble thought." But the whole debacle has Saracevic pining for the Kaepernick of 2010, whose future seemed "impossibly bright" but who started to crumble in the face of media scrutiny and injuries. Ultimately, "Kaepernick’s protest feels misplaced, the latest in a string of incidents that point to poor judgment and a career gone wrong." That sound coming from USA Today is clapping. "More power to him," writes Jarrett Bell. "Kaepernick is 28. Malcolm X was 28 when he came out of prison with an evolving self-awareness. I’m twice that old but constantly working on self-awareness. And so is this nation, which Kaepernick shone a light on in his own way."