Colin Kaepernick’s National Anthem Protests: A Decade of Lingering Impact on NFL and Society

Fort Myers Naples, FL, August 31, 2026 —

Washington D.C. – A significant movement for protest, initiated a decade ago by former NFL player Colin Kaepernick, continues to echo through sports and society. In 2016, Kaepernick, then quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, began kneeling during the U.S. national anthem. His stated intention was to protest racial injustice and police brutality.

This form of protest, which he continued throughout the 2016 NFL season, quickly ignited a national conversation and significant controversy. The act drew both staunch support and intense criticism, extending beyond the realm of professional football. Kaepernick’s actions became a focal point for debates surrounding patriotism, freedom of speech, and racial inequality in the United States.

Following his decision to protest, Kaepernick became a free agent after the 2016 season. He has not been signed by an NFL team since, a fact widely attributed by supporters to his activism. This situation has led to ongoing discussions about whether Kaepernick’s exclusion from the league was a direct consequence of his protest.

The ripple effects of Kaepernick’s kneeling protests have been considerable and long-lasting. The movement he started influenced other athletes across various sports to use their platforms for social and political advocacy. The debate it provoked also brought increased attention to the issues of racial injustice and police brutality, contributing to broader societal discussions that persist to this day.

While Kaepernick has not played in the NFL for several years, his activism and the controversy surrounding his protest remain a notable chapter in the history of sports and social movements in the United States. The legacy of his actions continues to be a reference point in discussions about athlete activism and its impact.

Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.