Veteran who stood with Kaepernick recalls backlash a decade later
Nate Boyer, a former NFL player and Army Green Beret, says he still views Colin Kaepernick's anthem protest as an act of patriotism, despite facing professional repercussions. He described how a sponsorship for his veterans' foundation was withdrawn after his connection to Kaepernick was discovered, even nine years after the protest. Boyer expressed disbelief that the controversy persisted, emphasizing that his involvement was aimed at unity and understanding.
Boyer's MVP foundation lost a five-figure sponsorship from an NFL partner brand last August, after the company's legal team discovered his past meeting with Kaepernick. The withdrawal came just before a planned college football tour, with thousands already spent on upfront costs and the company ceasing communication.
Boyer's perspective shifted after listening to Kaepernick's 18-minute interview, in which the quarterback distinguished between supporting troops and protesting systemic oppression. Boyer, who served six years in the military, came to view the protest as consistent with the flag's ideals rather than disrespectful to them, noting Kaepernick had previously donated an inscribed football to his foundation.
This story illustrates how professional consequences can persist long after a symbolic act, even for peripheral figures. Businesses and sponsors may remain cautious about political associations, which could discourage others from engaging in protest. The lingering backlash suggests that debates over patriotism and racial justice continue to shape public and corporate behavior, potentially affecting how athletes and veterans navigate advocacy in their careers.