Nike's Colin Kaepernick gamble is already paying off

The campaign sent a strong message to Nike's core customers: Millennials and younger men in cities. Two-thirds of the company's sneaker customers are younger than 35, according to Matt Powell, a sports retail analyst at market research firm NPD Group.

"[Nike] communicated to them in a way that is authentic, culturally relevant, experiential and emotionally engaging," Svezia wrote in an analyst note Friday.

He said the campaign increased core customers' loyalty to Nike. It also raised awareness for the brand.

Nike gained 170,000 Instagram followers, and an Instagram post featuring Kaepernick was the second-most liked post in Nike's history, behind a post about the World Cup.

If the slide in viewership continues?

with the millions of new immigrants

Panthers wide receiver Torrey Smith, an outspoken supporter of activist players, backed the move on Twitter.
“There is never a wrong time to do the right thing,” Smith wrote.
Smith later said Reid’s return to the game was overdue.
“I’m excited. It shouldn’t have taken this long, a person with his talent,” Smith said.
“We all understand the reason why. This says a lot about the men & the leaders here. They’re making a football decision, but Eric is also a great man & leader.” The role of new Panthers owner David Tepper has also been cited as a key influence in the signing.