Pro Football Hall of Famer and Dallas Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith believes Colin Kaepernick deserves to be on an NFL roster.
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"I think Colin Kaepernick definitely has the talent to play the game of football," Smith told BlackSportsOnline. "I think somebody needs to give him a chance."
Kaepernick, 29, remains a free agent after spending his first six seasons with the 49ers. The former starter gained national attention last season for his decision to kneel during the national anthem as a form of protesting social injustice.
Several teams have passed on Kaepernick this offseason as many consider him to be a potential distraction given his constant media coverage. Still, there's little argument that the former 49ers starter — who led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2012 — isn't a better option than many of the backups signed this offseason.
"He deserves to be back in the game, regardless," Smith added. "He is an American citizen and he does have rights, and his rights should not be violated — just like no one else's rights should be violated."
Several other players have already echoed Kaepernick's protest early in preseaosn. Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett sat on the team's bench with a towel over his head during the national anthem of Sunday night's game against the San Diego Chargers.
Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch leaned next to a water cooler while eating a banana during his team's preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday.
