The free agent succeeded by starting a conversation, but for at least one week of breathless hype it was almost impossible to hear
Six years ago this week, a 25-year-old mid-season injury replacement for the San Francisco 49ers stepped onto the field at the Superdome in New Orleans, becoming only the fourth quarterback to start in a Super Bowl in the same season as his first career start. So much has transpired in the time since Colin Kaepernick’s metamorphosis into the most divisive figure in American sports, and one could argue society at large, that it’s easy to forget the overnight sensation he generated as a mostly anonymous understudy in dizzying ascent, captivating the country with his rare blend of arm strength and rushing ability.
That night Kaepernick’s inexperience was laid bare in the first half as he was harried, hit and harassed by the Baltimore Ravens’ formidable defense. But with San Francisco trailing 28-6 in the third quarter, the young quarterback came alive. He made one play after another and chipped away at the deficit, marching the Niners to within five yards of a game-winning touchdown in the dying seconds. The Ravens held on for the 34-31 win, but the ingenue’s finishing kick augured a future of limitless promise.
I will not be a spectator, viewer or supporter of the #SuperBowl today in protest of the @NFL’s racist treatment of @Kaepernick7 and its ongoing disregard for the health + well-being of all its players. To watch the game is to compromise my beliefs. It’s not worth it. #ImWithKap pic.twitter.com/fNEeke0crs
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