Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall is handing over more than $24,000 to the NFL as a result of a helmet-to-helmet hit on Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and he hopes to be doling out a lot more money for legal tackles as the season unfolds.
Marshall met with Denver police chief Robert White on Tuesday for a discussion about law enforcement in light of Marshall’s decision to take a knee during the playing of the national anthem last Thursday night. White said “it became pretty clear to me that his kneeling was to speak to” injustices that Marshall feels exist in the country and that he was left with the feeling that Marshall “wants to do something” to address them beyond taking the knee.
Marshall shared his thoughts about the meeting in an Instagram post on Wednesday while announcing his plans to donate $300 per tackle to local charities. The full text of Marshall’s post appears below.
“On Thursday, Sept. 8, I took a knee for the National Anthem to take a stand against social injustice. My intent was not to offend anyone but rather to simply raise awareness and create some dialogue toward affecting positive change in our communities.
In the last week, I’ve had a lot of productive conversations with people I respect, including Chief White of the Denver Police Department. I really appreciate all of them taking the time to listen to me and offer some insight and feedback on ways we can all make a difference.”
“I’ve also had a lot of time to personally reflect on important issues such as race and gender equality, the treatment of our military veterans, our relationship with law enforcement, educational opportunities for our youth, and many more. I recognize and applaud the significant progress that has been made in these areas made possible only through the hard work of so many dedicated leaders.”
“But, it’s clear there is so much more work to be done by all of us. Together, we all need to Stand Up for change. This starts with me.”
“My work with the Rose Andom Center to stop domestic violence is fulfilling and close to my heart. But I need to do more.
I plan to be involved with several other organizations that benefit the Denver community and others through the services, awareness and funds they provide for these critical social issues. And I will donate 300 dollars for every tackle I make this season to those programs. You can track these contributions on social media through #TackleChange.”
“I’m truly grateful for the support I’ve received from so many people, especially my teammates. I look forward to preparing with them and focusing on an important game Sunday against the Colts.”