(Photo) Marcus Peters raises apparent Black Power fist

Marcus Peters of the Kansas City Chiefs raised his fist during the national anthem in an apparent nod to what’s become a growing movement.

Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Marcus Peters appears to have joined in on the Colin Kaepernick phenomenon. However, he chose to express himself in a different way — assuming he meant what he appeared to be signaling.

A photo showed Peters appearing to raise a Black Power fist.

While it’s unclear what Peters’ motivations really were, Kaepernick’s refusal to stand for the national anthem has undoubtedly set a trend, as evidenced by the growing number of players taking similar stances in recent days. While Peters did not outwardly join in on Kaepernick’s movement, his very-prominent fist pump sure seems like a nod to the embattled 49ers quarterback.

The black power fist originated at the 1968 Summer Olympics, when two African-American athletes, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, raised their fists during the national anthem. It was at once an act of protest and an act of unity, with the prevailing image of the two atop the podium resonating even today. Like Smith and Carlos before him, Peters is sure to draw both support and criticism for statement.

Indeed, Kaepernick has drawn significant heat for his outspoken stance against black oppression. Lately, however, that criticism has been matched by a growing number of NFL players considering, and in some cases conducting, pregame protests.

Peters is entering his second season in the NFL after a prolific rookie season in which he finished with eight interceptions, 60 tackles, and two touchdowns, immediately established himself as one of the most feared cornerbacks in the league.

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