Is Colin Kaepernick Still Marketable After His NFL Collision Lawsuit?

Colin Kaepernick, once a sought-after quarterback, is now widely regarded as not marketable primarily due to a combination of his controversial actions and subsequent legal issues. Critics argue that his actions and the resulting lawsuit have made him a liability for any team considering signing him.

The Controversy Surrounding Kaepernick

Before the controversy, Kaepernick's marketability could be attributed to his talent and the two good seasons he had with the San Francisco 49ers. However, his decision to kneel during the national anthem sparked widespread debate about racial injustice and police brutality. His subsequent lawsuit against the NFL, focusing on what he perceives as an unfair collusion to prevent him from finding a team, has only added to the contention.

Why Kaepernick Is No Longer Marketable

The main argument against Kaepernick being marketable is his perceived inability to play at a high level. Many fans and analysts argue that:

Racing quarterbacks rarely have long careers, and Kaepernick's performance post-suspension does not reflect his previous level of play. The NFL's decision to realign with Michael Vick, perceived as a convicted felon, implies a lack of moral judgment and leadership in the league.

The league's stance on Kaepernick is seen as damning by some. At a time when the NFL faced significant public scrutiny for its handling of issues like domestic violence, sexual harassment, and the use of performance-enhancing drugs, the decision not to sign Kaepernick is viewed as a signal of prioritizing stability over integrity.

Other Factors Contributing to Kaepernick's Lack of Marketability

The timing of the lawsuit and the associated media attention have exacerbated his lack of marketability. Additionally, some point to his apparent disinterest in the “Black Lives Matter” movement and his supposed lack of support for his own community:

Financial and Public Disinterest

Despite receiving financial guarantees for his protest, Kaepernick has failed to maintain the same level of advocacy and support. This perceived inaction has fueled criticisms that he is more concerned with personal gain than with genuinely addressing the issues he initially brought to light.

His career record, including his signing of a lucrative contract with the 49ers and his one notable playoff performance, is often used by critics to argue that his marketability is overblown. They contend that without talent, his marketability was always dependent on the team's overall quality and not on his individual performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Kaepernick's initial marketability was based on talent and the timing of his protest, his current non-marketability is largely due to his protest actions, subsequent legal actions, and perceived lack of continued support for social justice causes. The NFL's decision to realign with a convicted felon further contributes to the perception that he is not a good fit for any team considering signing him.

The question remains: can Kaepernick regain his marketability, or is he now too closely associated with the controversial actions and subsequent legal issues of his past?