Colin Kaepernick has managed to stay relevant despite his absence from the NFL for several years.
Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick is set to grace the cover of GQ Germany for its March edition, marking a significant moment in his journey from football star to global advocate for human rights.
GQ Germany described Kaepernick as a “global icon for human rights” and announced that the upcoming issue would reflect on his iconic kneeling protest and its aftermath.
Sharing glimpses from Kaepernick’s GQ photoshoot on Instagram, his longtime girlfriend, Nessa Diab, expressed gratitude for the recognition he receives internationally. Diab highlighted Kaepernick’s humility and reluctance to seek acknowledgment, juxtaposed against the lack of appreciation she perceives for him in certain circles, particularly within the NFL.
“So thankful. So grateful. There’s something special about Colin being loved and appreciated,” she wrote on Instagram. “Colin never seeks it or wants the acknowledgment IYKYK. I have to literally BEG him to accept any award or recognition.
“It’s also bitter sweet when globally Colin is loved and appreciated. Here, I don’t feel he’s ever fully appreciated. Maybe I’m in my head. Hell, he’s STILL blackballed from his hard earned career by that organization for protesting against police violence. From the blackballing to the co-opting, to all of it, it’ll never sit right with me.”
Expressing her frustrations with the league’s treatment of Kaepernick, including his continued absence from professional football despite his talent and dedication, Diab conveyed a sense of disappointment and resolve to focus on those who support and appreciate Kaepernick’s activism.
Despite a workout with the Raiders in 2022, Kaepernick remains unsigned by any NFL team, leading to doubts about his return to the field.
With each passing day, the likelihood of Kaepernick making a comeback in football seems increasingly remote, but his impact and legacy as a symbol of activism and resilience continue to resonate globally.
