By: John Guzzetti

Over the past couple of years, the NFL has been losing fans. Ever since football has become somewhat of a political issue, the popularity of the sport has taken a massive blow. The issue began when current President Donald Trump criticized Colin Kaepernick (former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers) for kneeling during the National Anthem. President Trump believed that this action was disrespectful and began to tweet comments on social media about how players should be fired from the league if they kneel during the anthem. The issue has drawn massive amounts of attention, and people have varying beliefs on the subject. Some think that Kaepernick, and others who have since joined him across the NFL as a sign of solidarity, has the right to kneel during the anthem. Others disagree and believe that this action was an insult to all of the brave men and women who have fought for our country. Subsequently, this season hasn’t been kind to the NFL. Ratings are nearing all-time lows, stadiums have begun to empty, and 6% of fans have stopped watching altogether (according to the Seton Hall sports poll). The NFL is losing fans quickly, and they must do something fast in order to maintain popularity. If not, the downward spiral may continue, and professional football, as we know it, may soon be a thing of the past.

Photo courtesy of si.com