Story perspectives

Kaepernick Claims Jay-Z Freestyle Targets Him, Hints Deal

9/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Colin Kaepernick says Jay-Z’s July freestyle at Yankee Stadium attacks him and hints at a non-disparagement deal.
He announced he will not sell his memoir “The Perilous Fight” at Target, partnering with National Association of Black Bookstores.
He will be first guest on “Before & After with Lester Holt” Sept. 7 and on “TODAY” Sept. 16.
Kaepernick says the NFL’s racial-justice initiatives are “performative” and the league is actively blackballing him.

History

Historical Context

In October 1968, American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos won gold and bronze in the 200 m, with Smith setting a 19.83-second world record, then raised black-gloved fists on the podium. IOC president Avery Brundage responded by suspending them and expelling them from the Games. Their experience is echoed in Colin Kaepernick’s 2024 claim of NFL blackballing for protest.

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Story summary

Colin Kaepernick says Jay-Z’s July freestyle at Yankee Stadium attacks him and hints at a non-disparagement deal.
He announced he will not sell his memoir “The Perilous Fight” at Target, partnering with National Association of Black Bookstores.
He will be first guest on “Before & After with Lester Holt” Sept. 7 and on “TODAY” Sept. 16.
Kaepernick says the NFL’s racial-justice initiatives are “performative” and the league is actively blackballing him.

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