Jim Harbaugh Says He Doesn't Respect Colin Kaepernick's Protest

San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick's decision to sit down during national anthem as a form of protest has generated plenty of controversy. And now, his former coach and current Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh has chimed in. 

"I acknowledge his right to do that, but I don’t respect the motivation or the action," Harbaugh said when asked about it at his press conference. 

However, Harbaugh later clarified his comments. 

I apologize for misspeaking my true sentiments. To clarify, I support Colin's motivation. It's his method of action that I take exception to

— Coach Harbaugh (@CoachJim4UM) August 29, 2016

Harbaugh had served as the 49ers' head coach from 2011-14. Kaepernick's play was best under the tutelage of Harbaugh. But Kaepernick's play has struggled in recent years, especially since Harbaugh left. 

Kaepernick explained his decision to sit during the national anthem a few days ago. 

"I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kaepernick told NFL Media. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."

The NFL said that while they encourage players to stand, they respect Kaepernick's right to not stand. The 49ers expressed a similar viewpoint in their own statement.