Colin Kaepernick reiterated his comparison between the NFL and the slave trade during a conversation with former ESPN commentator Ryan Clark. This discussion, part of an interview on Clark’s “Pivot” podcast, revisits comments Kaepernick made in the 2021 Netflix series “Colin in Black & White.” In the series, Kaepernick draws a parallel between the NFL Scouting Combine and a slave auction.
Kaepernick’s narration in the series highlights what he describes as a power dynamic. He compares the physical examinations at the Combine to a lack of dignity and respect for player boundaries. “Before they put you on the field,” he narrates, “teams poke, prod, and examine you, searching for any defect that might affect your performance.”
When Clark questioned Kaepernick on the podcast about when he first made this comparison, Kaepernick responded by describing how the experience felt to him in 2011. He admitted lacking the “historical perspective at the time” but now views it as aligned with a slave auction. Although aware that NFL players earn millions, he believes the process’s intentions mirror those of slavery.
Kaepernick maintains that he is still ready to return to the NFL, training regularly as if he were still a player. Despite not playing since January 2017, he has not abandoned hopes of an NFL comeback.
Ryan Clark did not challenge Kaepernick’s view on the podcast. Instead, their discussion concluded with Clark’s apparent agreement. This dialogue sparked controversy and criticism over its portrayal, especially regarding Kaepernick’s ongoing comparison between the NFL recruitment process and historical slavery.
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