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DeSean Jackson brought attention to what he described as the
"senseless killings of both citizens and police" by wearing
custom-made cleats during Washington's game at FedEx Field in
Landover, Maryland.
Jackson wore white-and-blue cleats painted with yellow police
caution tape for the national anthem but changed before the
game.
"Today is the start of my attempts to be part of a solution and
start dialogue about the senseless killings of both citizens and
police," Jackson said in a statement, adding that he did not
consider his action to be a protest.
"I have chosen to wear these cleats in pre-game today to use my
platform as a pro athlete to add to this discussion.
"This isn't meant to be any kind of protest against the good men
and women in law enforcement in this country. I just want to
express my concern in a peaceful and productive way about issues
that are currently impacting our country."
The Redskins had no objection to Jackson's shoes.
"We stand in support of both DeSean and the law enforcement
community," the team said.
Elsewhere, the Seattle Seahawks' players continued their
demonstration of unity by linking arms during the national
anthem before their game at the New York Jets.
Meanwhile, at least half a dozen other players made a silent
statement during the anthem, including Bruce Irvin and Malcolm
Smith of the Oakland Raiders.
For the second straight week they raised their right fists in
scenes reminiscent of sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos
during the 200 meters medal ceremony at the 1968 Olympics.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick started what
has become a controversy when he began the gestures against
injustice and police brutality by refusing to stand for "The
Star-Spangled Banner" during pre-season games.
(Reporting by Andrew Both in Cary, North Carolina; Editing by
Ken Ferris)
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