Colin Kaepernick Still Hopes for NFL Return Despite Eight-Year Absence

Despite being on the sidelines for eight years, Colin Kaepernick remains hopeful that an NFL team will sign him as a quarterback at the age of 37.

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has not played in an NFL game since 2017 but continues to express his desire to return to the league. During a recent interview with Sky News at the Paris Olympics, Kaepernick stated that he and his team are still training and striving to find a team willing to sign him.

"We're still training, still pushing," said Kaepernick. "Hopefully, we've just got to get one of these team owners to open up."

Colin Kaepernick Still Hopes for NFL Return Despite Eight-Year Absence

Kaepernick's absence from the NFL stems from his decision to protest police brutality and racial injustice by kneeling during the national anthem before games in 2016. His actions sparked a national debate and ultimately led to his departure from the 49ers after the 2016 season.

Despite numerous attempts to secure a return, including a scheduled NFL-sponsored workout in 2019 that was canceled, Kaepernick has not received a contract offer from an NFL team. In 2022, he worked out with the Las Vegas Raiders but was not signed.

Colin Kaepernick Still Hopes for NFL Return Despite Eight-Year Absence

Kaepernick believes he can still contribute to an NFL team and help them win a championship.

"It's something I've trained my whole life for, so to be able to step back on the field, I think that would be a major moment, a major accomplishment for me," said Kaepernick. "I think I could bring a lot to a team and help them win a championship."

Colin Kaepernick Still Hopes for NFL Return Despite Eight-Year Absence

While he awaits a return to the NFL, Kaepernick has focused on his social activism platform through Know Your Rights Camp and Kaepernick Publishing. He has been critical of the NFL Draft, comparing it to a slave auction, and advocating for abolishing law enforcement.

Despite his outspoken social views, Kaepernick expressed interest in joining the New York Jets after quarterback Aaron Rodgers was injured last season. However, he remains a free agent.

The NFL has faced criticism for its handling of Kaepernick's situation, with many believing that he is being blacklisted due to his protests. The league has taken steps to address social justice issues but has been criticized for not doing enough.

Kaepernick's continued pursuit of an NFL return highlights the ongoing debate over the intersection of sports, activism, and free speech. Despite the challenges he has faced, Kaepernick remains determined to use his platform to advocate for change both on and off the field.