Colin Kaepernick returned to life as an NFL starter on Sunday evening.

The San Francisco 49ers quarterback had failed to start a game in almost a year, but the 28-year-old took to the field on Sunday in New York state, as the 49ers suffered a heavy defeat to the Buffalo Bills.

Kaepernick has become a polarising figure this season, due to his insistence on not standing for the American national anthem.

In an ever-increasing tense political climate in America, some Buffalo fans decided to "welcome" Kaepernick in their own unique way. Sports Illustrated's Robert Klemko reported screams of "tackle the Muslim" as drunken Buffalo fans tackled an afro-wearing dummy. 

There were also t-shirts freely on sale, with a rifle scope pointing at the quarterback. 

Shirts with a rifle scope trained on Colin Kaepernick selling for $10 outside of Ralph Wilson stadium. pic.twitter.com/bSuxF3G5qq

— Robert Klemko (@RobertKlemko) October 16, 2016

Here's a very drunk Bills fan spearing a dummy with Kaepernick jersey and afro wig. pic.twitter.com/PDo0NL2Pcp

— Robert Klemko (@RobertKlemko) October 16, 2016

Bills fans scream "tackle the Muslim", then a young lady obliges. pic.twitter.com/A1eKcyWT87

— Robert Klemko (@RobertKlemko) October 16, 2016

While, the Buffalo fans in question were vocal in their disdain of Kaepernick, some home fans were not happy with his treatment. It could be a very long season for the 28-year-old. 

FWIW: Guy walking past this scene cupped his hands around his mouth and yelled, "THIS JUST MAKES BUFFALO LOOK BAD!"

— Robert Klemko (@RobertKlemko) October 16, 2016