I interpreted his actions as speaking on behalf of others, not necessarily himself. I think it took quite the sack to do what he did because a.) he had to know he was going to catch hell for it, b.) he's battling for a job that's not guaranteed, and c.) he put endorsements at risk.
The same constitution that guarantees the right to bear arms guarantees this guy's right to free speech. I love hearing conservatives (not necessarily you, BHF)
and moan about the black lives matter movement because of their disruptive protests, while at the same time
ing and moaning about a peaceful, non-disruptive protest like Kaepernick's. Say what you will, but his actions have thrust the conversation back into the town square, if only for a week. If for no other reason than that, he was successful in his efforts.