Colin Kaepernick, who has caused controversy by kneeling during the US national anthem, has been named to start at quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers.
Kaepernick, whose protest against injustice and police brutality has been defended by US President Barack Obama and since spread to other players and sports, will take over for a 49ers team that is 1-4 after losing four consecutive games.
"I think people are realising the injustices and the oppression that's taking place in this country and it's something that needs to be addressed." Kaepernick said.
"I think it'd have a huge impact on a lot of people's lives and that's ultimately what the goal is to affect this country and those people positively."
By refusing to stand for "The Star-Spangled Banner" during the NFL's 2016 season, Kaepernick has made headlines and set off a national debate about race relations, policing and the mixing of politics and sports.
Many other athletes in the NFL and some in the NBA have since copied the gesture and the silent protests have angered some fans who call it disrespectful to the US flag.
Kaepernick went 2-6 last season with a 59 per cent completion rate, six touchdowns and five interceptions.
Sunday's game versus the host Buffalo Bills will mark Kaepernick's first start since last November.
