The NFL is heading toward the 2026 NFL Draft and has begun its offseason workout programs. Teams are also evaluating free agency options to round out their rosters.
A name that consistently surfaces in the media when teams need a quarterback is Colin Kaepernick. He has not officially retired but has not played since 2016.
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Since then, Kaepernick has made multiple attempts to return to the NFL. Despite those efforts, teams have avoided pursuing him as an option.
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Now, the former San Francisco 49ers signal-caller has made a major announcement on X. On Tuesday, he announced the release of his new book, “The Perilous Fight.”
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San Francisco 49ers Colin Kaepernick celebrates his touchdown run during the first quarter of their divisional playoff game against the Green Bay Packers Saturday, January 12, 2013 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif. Mjs Packers13 28 Of Hoffman Jpg Packers13
“I gave up everything. And I’d do it again. THE PERILOUS FIGHT is the full story. The becoming, the moment, and what’s still left to fight for.” Kaepernick wrote on X.
Kaepernick stated on social media that the book will tell his version of the events that led to the end of his NFL career. It will likely also cover his comeback attempts since 2016.
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“The world has been telling my story for ten years. It’s my turn.” Kaepernick described.
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Kaepernick’s NFL career took a downturn when he was seen sitting during the national anthem in a preseason game. After he told the media he was protesting injustices in America, he faced heavy criticism.
Oct 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) kneels during the national anthem before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
A retired military veteran wrote to Kaepernick and asked him to kneel instead, to honor those who had sacrificed for the nation. Kaepernick was moved by this request and, from that point forward, knelt in protest while also honoring those who had given their lives for the country.
This action still sparked criticism and became a highly polarizing issue among fans, the NFL, and the media. Multiple players followed suit, joining Kaepernick’s protest.
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Eventually, Kaepernick and the 49ers parted ways following the 2016 season. He has not played professional football since.
Feb 8, 2023; Phoenix, AZ, USA; A Ben & Jerry’s advertisement featuring caricature of Colin Kaepernick Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
He now focuses his efforts on raising awareness of social injustices and educating young Americans about their rights.
Kaepernick’s opening statement about this news is quite possibly the biggest takeaway of his career: “What would you sacrifice for what you believe in?”