Colin Kaepernick says NFL and slavery are part of the ‘same process’ in interview with Ryan Clark
Colin Kaepernick has reiterated his comparison between the NFL and slavery during an interview with former ESPN commentator Ryan Clark on the "Pivot" podcast. The comparison, which originally appeared in Kaepernick's 2021 Netflix series "Colin in Black & White," draws parallels between the NFL Scouting Combine and slave auctions, focusing on how teams physically examine and evaluate players before signing them.
During the interview, Kaepernick elaborated on his position, describing the Combine process as a "meat market" where players submit to examination without "boundary" or "dignity." He acknowledged that whilst the NFL pays players substantial salaries, he argues that "the process and intentions behind the process are the same" as slavery. Kaepernick noted he lacked historical perspective when making similar comments in 2011. He has not played professionally since January 2017 but continues to train daily and maintains he is "ready" to return to the league.
- Kaepernick compares NFL Combine evaluation process to slave auctions
- He argues power dynamics and intentions parallel slavery despite high player compensation
- Inactive since 2017 but claims continued readiness to play in the NFL