Colin Kaepernick suggests Robert Kraft colluded against him in 2017
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 7:16 AM
Last updated Sep 17, 2026
Colin Kaepernick claims that Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, used similar tactics against him as he did to Macklemore by allegedly colluding to harm their careers. Kaepernick made these statements during an appearance on the Meidas Touch podcast in the context of Kraft's recent actions regarding Macklemore's concert performances. Following his decision to kneel during the national anthem in 2016, Kaepernick faced difficulties in securing a contract with any NFL team and filed a grievance alleging collusion against NFL owners. Although a settlement was reached in 2019, Kaepernick's hopes of returning to the league have not materialized as he remains unsigned. At 38 years old, his return appears increasingly unlikely.
- •Kaepernick alleges collusion similar to Kraft's actions against Macklemore.
- •Kraft faced backlash after banning Macklemore from performing.
- •Kaepernick has not played in the NFL since the 2016 season.
- •He filed a grievance against NFL owners, which was settled in 2019.
- •Kaepernick remains unsigned as he seeks a return to the league.
- 7:16 AMYahoo Sports — Colin Kaepernick claims Robert Kraft allegedly used the same Macklemore tactics against him in 2017
"In light of Robert Kraft getting Macklemore banned from several NFL stadiums, Colin Kaepernick has suggested that the New England Patriots owner did the same to him. Kaepernick’s decision to kneel during the national anthem in 2016 proved to be the end of his career, as the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback never got an opportunity to return to the NFL following the incident.
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