Colin Kaepernick refuses to support NFL over alleged blackballing

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 3:57 PM

Last updated Sep 1, 2026

Colin Kaepernick refuses to support NFL over alleged blackballing
Summary

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick stated in an interview that he does not watch the NFL and will not support the league. Kaepernick, who last played in 2016, alleged that the organization is actively blackballing him and targeting other players who participated in protests. The quarterback began kneeling during the national anthem in 2016 to protest racial violence, a gesture suggested by teammate Eric Reid. Kaepernick faced significant public and league-wide criticism during that season, which he claims functioned as a distraction from the message of his protest. Although he remained interested in returning to the league, he filed a collusion grievance in 2017 that resulted in a settlement in 2019. Kaepernick currently watches college football but maintains he will remain separated from the professional league.

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By the Numbers
  • Colin Kaepernick has not played in the NFL since the 2016 season.
  • The quarterback alleges the league is blackballing him and other protesting players.
  • Kaepernick filed a collusion grievance against the NFL in 2017 and settled in 2019.
  • The decision to kneel during the anthem was suggested by teammate Eric Reid.
Latest Updates
  • 3:57 PMYahoo SportsColin Kaepernick won't support NFL, says league is 'actively blackballing me' and others who protested
What they're saying
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Colin Kaepernick still watches football, just not the NFL.

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