Controversy has been very good for the Colin Kaepernick merch business.
Sales of Kaepernick's jersey have skyrocketed in the wake of his refusal to stand during the national anthem in protest of perceived wrongdoings against African-Americans and minorities in the U.S.
Kaepernick's red Niners jersey is actually the No. 1-selling jersey at NFL Shop as of Tuesday afternoon, ahead of Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz and Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott. Kaepernick's white Niners jersey is also a top seller, ranked 12th in sales.
This was an especially risky financial decision for buyers considering that Kaepernick's job security was very much up in the air entering the weekend. I understand this probably wasn't, you know, the point, but warrants mentioning.
On Wednesday, Kaepernick thanked fans for showing him their support:
"I want to thank everyone who has shown me love and support, it truly means a lot! I wasn't expecting my jersey sales to jump to number one because of this, but it shows the people's belief that we can achieve justice and equality for ALL! The only way I can repay you for the support is to return the favor by donating all the proceeds I receive from my jersey sales back into the communities! I believe in the people, and WE can be the change!"
