New York City police officers rally in support of Colin Kaepernick

Dozens of New York City police officers came out Saturday for an unexpected cause -- Colin Kaepernick.

As the NFL season inches closer, the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback remains unsigned. Many believe teams are avoiding Kaepernick due to his notable protests during the playing of the national anthem before games.

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Throughout last season, Kaepernick would regularly take a knee during the anthem, saying, "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color."

About 75 NYPD officers took part in a rally in Brooklyn to shed light on Kaepernick's struggle, saying that how the league and teams have treated him is unfair.

"What Colin Kaepernick did is try to bring awareness that this nation unfortunately has ignored for far too long," said NYPD Sgt. Edwin Raymond, who helped to organize the event. "We decided to gather here today because of the way he’s being railroaded for speaking the obvious truth."

Most of the officers invoved in Saturday's gathering were minorities, with the exception of retired officer Frank Serpico.

"I am here to support anyone who has the courage to stand up against injustice and oppression anywhere in this country and the world," Serpico said.

Protests during the national anthem garnered more attention last week when Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett called upon white players to support their teammates in their demonstrations.

Chris Long, of the Philadelphia Eagles and a native of Charlottesville, Virginia, answered that call on Thursday and continues to be outspoken about the issues currently plaguing the league and his hometown.

On Friday, Seahawks defensive lineman Justin Britt did the same for teammate Bennett.