The protests by NFL athletes have nothing whatsoever to do with the flag or the military. They are protesting against a system in which corrupt officers can shoot black people in the back, plant evidence, and get away with it.  By protesting they are showing far more respect for the flag, the military, and for the ideals for which the United States supposedly stands than politicians who perpetuate and in some cases exacerbate the deep rifts that still plague our nation. Kneeling during the anthem is a strong form of protest, but it will take a strong protest to influence change.