American footballer Brandon Marshall refuses to stand during national anthem in protest against 'social injustice' in US

Brandon Marshall kneels during the national anthem. Credit: Reuters

An American football player has become the latest athlete to kneel during the national anthem in protest against social injustice in the US.

Denver Broncos linebacker, Brandon Marshall, has followed in the footsteps of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who knelt on the sideline before The Star Spangled Banner began, and remained in that position while his teammates stood to his left.

Marshall, who is black, is the third National Football League (NFL) player to not stand during the national anthem since Kaepernick began his sideline protest against racial injustice and police brutality.

Kaepernick's teammate Eric Reid joined in the protest during the 49ers' pre-season finale last week, while Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane sat on the bench last week against the Oakland Raiders.

Many Americans saw Kaepernick's actions as a sign of disrespect and criticism was widespread, but he has also received much support.

Since Kaepernick began his protest, his preseason jersey has become the top-selling jersey on the NFL's official online shop.

Brandon Marshall knelt during the national anthem in protest against 'social injustice'. Credit: Reuters