DAVIE, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins defensive tackle and four-time Pro Bowler Ndamukong Suh said Monday that he supports Colin Kaepernick's right to express displeasure with racial oppression in the United States.

The San Francisco 49ers quarterback sat during the national anthem this preseason, which has stirred a national debate.

"You got to respect the man's opinion, as well as his actions," Suh said before practice. "I definitely understand where he's coming from and him choosing to do what he did.

"I think it's an individual choice. At the same time I think a lot [us] as leaders, especially with young kids, is to make a good, proper announcement if you feel the need to. I think that's what he's doing. I support him in that, and for me, I just have to move forward and go with the punches."

Kaepernick said this week he will continue to sit during the national anthem until he sees real change with racial oppression. Kaepernick is in a position battle with Blaine Gabbert for the starting quarterback job in San Francisco.