Ex-Green Beret, Seahawks long snapper supports Kaepernick

Colin Kaepernick has been the talk of the sporting world for the better part of the last week, and will presumably continue on that path well into the upcoming season.

After sitting out pregame national anthems in protest against what he deems "a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kapernick has drawn both criticism and praise for the demonstration.

Ex-Seattle Seahawks long snapper and former Green Beret Nate Boyer was the latest to speak out in support of the San Francisco 49ers quarterback Wednesday in an appearance on NFL Network.

"I would just listen," Boyer said when asked how Kaepernick's actions should be viewed. "I would shut my mouth and just listen. There's just so much hate going on, and from both sides. No one wants to listen. Everyone just can't wait for their turn. It's getting old. I would 100 percent listen. I want to hear everything he's going through, he's struggling with. I'll never be able to actually feel what it's actually like to be him, obviously. No one can feel that for anyone else.

"But at least if I just listen with an open mind, try my best to fight the judgments that are going on in my head because we all have those too, you might hear something that resonates with you."

Boyer admitted that he would have been hurt to see a teammate sit during the national anthem, likely assuming that someone would only do so because they hated America. Taking the time to hear and try to understand Kaepernick's stance on the matter was enough for Boyer to appreciate the move.

"But now honestly, I respect the decision that he's making. It sounds like he's sticking to it because he's well within his rights. That's something that we fight for and that is what this country is all about. That is what this flag represents to me and what the anthem means to me. He's being an American. That's what he's doing."

Boyer's appearance on NFL Network came on the heels of an open letter he wrote to Kaepernick on ArmyTimes.com.

He expressed a similar message of support throughout, commending the quarterback for the courage he's shown in standing up for what he believes in.

"I look forward to the day you're inspired to once again stand during our national anthem. I'll be standing right there next to you. Keep on trying ... De Oppresso Liber."