Broncos’ Brandon Marshall Ends National Anthem Protest Citing Progress

Brandon Marshall is ending his national anthem protest, but that doesn’t mean he’s stopping his fight against social injustice.

Rather than taking a knee, the Denver Broncos linebacker stood during the playing of the “Star-Spangled Banner” prior to his team’s tilt against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday night, but he made it clear it wasn’t because he changed his stance toward the issue.

Marshall’s Instagram post said he’s “encouraged with the many productive discussions and progress that has taken place” but “there’s much work to be done.”

He also said he’s standing for the family of O’Shaine Evans, a 26-year-old man killed by police in 2014.

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For the 1st half of the season, I’ve been taking a knee for the National Anthem to raise awareness for social injustice and to start conversation about what all of us can do to make a positive change. I’m encouraged with the many productive discussions and progress that has taken place as the Denver Police department has decided to review its use of force policy. I’m proud to have joined so many of my peers throughout sports who’ve also made their own statements. Going forward, I will be standing for the National Anthem—not because everything is perfect, or because I'm changing my stance on things. But because of my hope for what we can become. Just because I am standing doesn't mean the work will end. There’s much work to be done. I’ll continue to recognize and support organizations that are stepping up as leaders and making a real difference in our community, and I will do my part to be there for those in need. One of those organizations is the Idriss Stelley Foundation, a grassroots organization in the Bay Area that offer free support to victims of police violence. I’ll be standing for them and the family of the late O’Shaine Evans—on Sunday night in addition to making a donation from my Tackle Change program to further the meaningful work of this group. I really appreciate the support from my family, teammates, coaches and fans. I’m grateful for those who have taken the time to hear me out. I’m excited for what all of us can accomplish when we truly work together.

A post shared by Brandon Marshall (@bmarshh) on Nov 6, 2016 at 3:21pm PST

After Colin Kaepernick, Marshall was arguably the second-most recognizable NFL player taking a knee during the anthem.

Thumbnail photo via Ron Chenoy/USA TODAY Sports Images