The NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has offered his support to both Colin Kaepernick and Michael Bennett after recent events. The former San Francisco 49ers quarterback is still without a team on the dawn of the new NFL season, and many believe this is because of his off-field distractions that came into the media spotlight last year after he was pictured kneeling during the national anthem in protest of racism in America.On the other hand, the Seattle Seahawks star's situation is a lot more serious but on the same topic. In his statement yesterday, Bennett said he was involved in a disturbing encounter with Las Vegas police where he was racially profiled by the officers, and victimized by an instance of police brutality.He claimed that one officer used excessive force to pin him to the ground and handcuff him, while another threatened to shoot him dead if he moved. Goodell has responded to this event and has issued his full support to the Seahawks star.The NFL commissioner said in a statement."Michael Bennett represents the best of the NFL - a leader on the team and in his community. Our foremost concern is the welfare of Michael and his family."The issues Michael has been raising deserve serious attention from all of our leaders in every community."
The commissioner also said the league will support Bennett and all of its players in promoting mutual respect between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Goodell also commented on the future of Kaepernick in the NFL, saying he believes he will be signed to a team soon.
Goodell said during an appearance on FS1's 'First Things First': "I'm not a football expert. I'm a huge fan. I have a role as commissioner also, but for me, I watch the games and enjoy and I let the football people make those decisions.
"I want to see everyone get an opportunity, including Colin, but those decisions are made by football people."
Kaepernick threw for 2,241 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions on a 59 percent completion rate during 12 appearances a season ago. He also rushed for 468 yards with two touchdowns and two fumbles.