Here's how brands are responding to Trump's criticism of the NFL anthem protests

Dozens of brands have been caught in the middle of controversy as President Trump has taken to Twitter to condemn NFL players' protests during the national anthem. 

The anthem protests, started by Colin Kaepernick last year, were meant to protest police brutality against black Americans.

Now, after President Trump derided players who have knee led during the anthem, the issue has blown up into a dangerous firestorm for brands trying to avoid controversy.

There are 35 brands sponsoring the NFL this year. Of those, a few have put out statements.

Most of the statements seem to neither support Trump's criticisms nor the players who have protested during the national anthem, though a few go far enough to defend players.

Under Armour

Under Armour Facebook

Under Armour, no stranger to Trump-related controversy, was quick to put out a statement Saturday. 

"[Under Armour] stands for the flag and by our Athletes [sic] for free speech, expression and a unified America," the brand tweeted.

Nike

Larry Busacca/Getty Images

Rival Nike's statement was more definitive: "Nike supports athletes and their right to freedom of expression on issues that are of great importance to our society."

Ford

Ford

Carmakers have also weighed in. Ford told Bloomberg that the company does "respect individuals' rights to express their views, even if they are not ones we share. That's part of what makes America great."

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