Terrell Owens: I experienced systemic racism with 49ers

Following the death of George Floyd and the protests surrounding racial injustice, many athletes are now speaking up about their personal experiences with racism, and Hall of Famer Terrell Owens is the latest to call out an NFL organization.

The 46-year-old Owens explained why he believes he was ousted from the league in 2010, at age 37, despite reeling in 72 receptions for 983 yards and nine touchdowns. Although he played for five different teams during his career, he blames former San Francisco 49ers head coach Steve Mariucci and his racist actions.

"I could've still continued to play but because I was outspoken, because of who I was, I wasn't allowed the opportunity," Owens told TMZ. "Because I was outspoken. Because of who I was and because of some of the coaches that said things behind closed doors and got in the ears of these owners, that's why I wasn't able to really continue on with my career.

"To me, that was systemic racism. I experienced it when I was in San Francisco under coach Mariucci. I experienced it. Trust me, I experienced it."

Owens went on to say his reputation suffered as a result of the things that happened during his time in San Francisco. 

The former wide receiver likely felt comfortable speaking up after NFL commissioner Roger Goodell officially condemned racism and admitted the league failed with how it dealt with player protests of police brutality and racism in a video last week. Goodell pledged the league would do better and encouraged players to "peacefully protest," which spurred President Trump to criticize Goodell via social media.

Goodell's video message was in response to a series of requests from the NFL's biggest stars, including Patrick Mahomes and Odell Beckham Jr., in which the players asked the league to condemn racism and admit wrongdoing in previous attempts to silence peaceful protests.

The entire discussion on racial injustice ignited after the death of Floyd, who died in police custody on May 25.

The 46-year-old Floyd was pinned to the ground by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who then proceeded to kneel on Floyd's neck, preventing Floyd from breathing. Floyd pleaded for his life and told Chauvin he couldn't breathe, but Chauvin refused to move, as a witness video showed.

Floyd was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Chauvin was arrested on charges of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. On June 3, Chauvin's charge was upgraded to second-degree murder, and three other now-former officers who were on the scene are facing charges.