Colin Kaepernick

Colin Kaepernick is a former NFL quarterback and activist best known for leading the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance and for kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice. Kaepernick was raised by his adoptive parents in Turlock, California. He showed strong athletic ability at a young age, excelling in football, baseball and basketball in high school. Kaepernick later attended the University of Nevada, Reno, where he played quarterback for the Nevada Wolf Pack and became one of the most productive dual-threat quarterbacks in college football history.

During his college career, he set multiple school records and became a top pick for the 2011 NFL Draft. He was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the second round of the 2011 draft, rising to prominence during the 2012 season after taking over as the team’s starting quarterback. He went on to lead the 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII under coach Jim Harbaugh. Kaepernick remained the team’s starter for several seasons and became known for his strong arm and mobility as a quarterback.

In 2016, Kaepernick drew national attention when he began kneeling during the national anthem before games to protest police brutality and racial inequality. The protest sparked widespread media coverage and made him a central figure in athlete activism. He did not return to the NFL following the 2016 season but has expressed his interest in returning to pro football.

Off the field, he has written the graphic novel memoir Change the Game (2023) and launched the Know Your Rights Camp organization focused on youth education and social justice.

Kaepernick has been in a longtime relationship with radio personality Nessa Diab. The couple welcomed their first child together in 2022. In 2025, Diab revealed that the two privately got married.