Chris Long supports teammate Malcolm Jenkins during anthem protest

Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins continued his protest of social injustices by raising his fist above his head during the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner before a home game against the Buffalo Bills Thursday night -- but this time, he wasn't alone.

Eagles defensive end Chris Long, who was standing next to Jenkins during the national anthem, placed his hand on his teammate's back throughout the entirety of the song. When the last note had played, Long patted Jenkins on the shoulder and the two shared a hug.

The move comes just one day after Seattle Seakhawks defensive end Michael Bennett implored white football players to support their teammates' anthem protests, which have been occurring since last season.

"It would take a white player to really get things changed," Bennett said Wednesday on ESPN.

Long, who is a native of Charlottesville, Virginia, has been very outspoken about his feelings on the recent events in his hometown.

"I was inspired by a lot of the allies that were there to stand up against hate in my hometown, and I wasn't able to be there to protest or to stand up against hate," he said of his actions Thursday. "I think it's a good time for people who look like me to be here for people fighting for equality."

The nine-year NFL veteran also sang the praises of his teammate, Jenkins.

"Malcolm is a leader, and I'm here to show support as a white athlete," Long said. "It's just telling Malcolm, I am here for you."

The act of kneeling, sitting or raising a first during the playing of the national anthem prior to NFL games began last season with quarterback Colin Kaepernick and has continued with the likes of Jenkins, Bennett and Marshawn Lynch, among others.

"Everyone is trying to turn this political," Long said earlier in the week. "This isn't a political issue. This is right or wrong."

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