Full Breakdown
Colin Kaepernick’s Anthem Protest and Its Aftermath
By Drooid · · How we work
The 2016 Anthem Protest
In September 2016, quarterback Colin Kaepernick knelt during the U.S. national anthem before a San Francisco 49ers preseason game to protest racial injustice and police brutality. At the time, Kaepernick warned the protest could jeopardize his career. He had previously led the 49ers to the 2013 Super Bowl and threw 16 touchdowns in his final season.
Legal Challenge and Settlement
After opting out of his contract in March 2017, Kaepernick remained unsigned. He filed a grievance alleging that NFL team owners colluded to keep him out of the league because of his activism. The dispute was resolved with a financial settlement in 2019. That year the NFL arranged a private workout for Kaepernick, which he declined in favor of a public session that allowed media presence.
Official Responses and Criticism
Donald Trump, then a presidential candidate, condemned the protest as unpatriotic and suggested that players who refused to stand should lose their jobs. The NFL initially threatened to fine teams whose players did not stand.
Impact and Ongoing Debate
Kaepernick says he would repeat the protest despite the personal cost, noting the unexpected support he received alongside the opposition. His actions sparked a broader movement among NFL players and athletes in other sports, while also fueling a national debate over the intersection of sports, politics, and free expression. The case remains a reference point for discussions about athlete activism and the responsibilities of professional leagues.