Half of 49ers kneel for anthem

GLENDALE, Ariz. (KTVU) - Sunday marked the first opportunity for the 49ers to make a statement during the National Anthem

Prior to Sunday's game the team said they planned to do something united and unique. Half of the team knelt, while the other half stood behind them, resting their hand on their teammates' shoulders.

President Trump made his statements that prompted many NFL players and coaches to protest after the 49ers' last game. 

The 49ers issued a statement after the protest saying, "As the majority of us have done throughout our careers, we use our platform as members of a NFL team, and our right to freedom of expression, to speak up for those whose voice is not heard. It is important that we continue to emphasize that despite our different backgrounds and beliefs, we still love each other and are truly a brotherhood. Our gesture today was an intentional effort to demostrate that. Make no mistake, we love this great country and have tremendous respect for our military and veterans who have sacrificed so much for our right to express ourselves freely. We passioantely want what is best for this country and all its citizens".