The Oakland Raiders played their first preseason game of the year on Saturday evening, but the outcome and players’ performances won’t be the dominant storyline that emerges.
Instead, running back Marshawn Lynch will capture headlines around the country on Saturday night, as the Raiders’ running back was photographed sitting during the National Anthem.
USA Today photographer Mark Rebilas captured the image of Lynch sitting behind the rest of his teammates ahead of their contest against the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday.
Former 49ers’ quarterback Colin Kaepernick came under fire last season for sitting, and then kneeling, during the National Anthem prior to San Francisco’s games, and Kaepernick is still without an NFL contract.
Lynch has a far more secure situation in Oakland, as he’s playing for his hometown team and is expected to be the Raiders’ starting running back this season after coming out of retirement to play under head coach Jack Del Rio.