DeSean Jackson wears police tape on his cleats to protest 'senseless killings'
Much of this young NFL season has been characterized by player protests and creatively designed cleats.
On Sunday, DeSean Jackson combined both.
In a statement against police brutality, the Washington Redskins wide receiver sported white and blue cleats with police tape painted on them.
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Jackson joins many other NFL players in protesting police violence, a movement 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick started by kneeling during the national anthem this season. Before last week's game against the Giants, Jackson and three teammates raised their fists during the national anthem.
"Today is the start of my attempts to be part of a solution and start dialogue about the senseless killings of both citizens and police," Jackson said in a statement. "I have chosen to wear these cleats in pregame today to use my platform as a pro athlete to add to this discussion. This isn't meant to be any kind of protest against the good men and women in law enforcement in this country. I just want to express my concern in a peaceful and productive way about the issues that are currently impacting our country."
Jackson also joins a handful of athletes who have faced fines for violating the NFL's uniform policies. The league charged Antonio Brown $9,115 for his cleats in Week 1. Brown customized a pair of cleats, paying tribute to the late Arnold Palmer for Sunday's game, but will avoid a fine because they are designed within his Steelers' team color scheme.
Jackson's baby blue, white and yellow cleats will likely earn him a fine.
The NFL is known for its strict uniform policies, though it will allow players to write personal messages on their cleats in Week 13.
The Redskins supported Jackson's actions.
"We have great respect for law enforcement and the sacrifices they make each and every day to protect and serve our communities," the organization said in a statement. "We continue to have open dialogue with our players about issues that are important to them and support their efforts to bring awareness to those issues when done in a responsible manner."
