During a rally in Alabama, Donald Trump discussed Colin Kaepernick and other NFL players who have joined him kneeling during the national anthem to protest police brutality, racism, and oppression. Trump referred to these players as "sons of bitches" and said they should be fired; he continued this rhetoric on Twitter. The president's comments ignited more players and fans to join in the protest and speak out against his divisive and offensive comments. Among those speaking out was J. Cole.

The rapper created a tweet thread supporting NFL players who decided to kneel, but also encouraging fans to join the boycott and not watch the games. Cole explained that the real power lies in the fans and advertising dollars. If fans choose not to watch the games and to call out companies who spend money with the league, then real change will occur. He referred back to the bus boycott during the civil rights movement and the miles they walked instead of riding the bus to show the bus companies that they won't tolerate racism. In comparison, it's easy to decide not to watch NFL games.

Cole also offered a solution to Kaepernick's situation. He suggested that a third party investigator be hired to determine if Kaepernick is indeed being blackballed by the league as punishment for his stance. If this is proven to be true, Kaepernick should then be compensated for his losses.

Cole thanked Kaepernick for his sacrifice and encouraged everyone to give energy to the solution, not the problem.