Mike Pesca: What Does It Mean To Take A Knee?

Colin Kaepernick's decision to sit during the playing of the national anthem before NFL games this season sparked both criticism and support. What the NFL quarterback did next, is the real story, according to commentator Mike Pesca.

"But then a big change happened — didn't seem like much, but by my estimation, changed everything. Instead of sitting, Kaepernick kneeled. Symbolic, yes, but what are we talking about? How to treat the flag — the ultimate symbol."

Pesca argues that while sitting is passive, taking a knee is an active motion connoting active listening. Pesca believes this makes all the difference — and he thinks we should be listening to the conversation more closely.

"After practice, the team gets together, huddles around the coach. He says 'Take a knee,' and information is absorbed. So let's all take a knee, and think about what to gain from all these protests — including Kaepernick's — throughout the NFL."

Mike Pesca hosts the daily podcast, The Gist, from Slate and is a panelist on the sports podcast HANG UP AND LISTEN; which posts every Monday. Listen to Pesca’s complete thoughts by clicking the play button below the headline at the top of the page.