The opening games of the new National Football League season are expected to be marked by peaceful demonstrations during the U.S. national anthem on Sunday by players trying to draw attention to racial disparities in the country's justice system. San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback Colin Kaepernick began the protests when he refused to stand for "The Star-Spangled Banner" during preseason games, at first choosing to sit on the bench and then later kneeling on one knee in a gesture that has divided fans. Other players have followed suit, most recently Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall ahead of Thursday's season opening win against the Carolina Panthers.
