Harrison Butker’s contentious commencement speech at Benedictine College has reignited discussions about Colin Kaepernick’s estrangement from the NFL.
Kaepernick, who last played for the San Francisco 49ers in 2016, became a polarizing figure for kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice, which many believe led to his unofficial exclusion from the league.
Unlike Kaepernick, Butker, who is set for his eighth season with the Kansas City Chiefs, does not face the same risk of losing his position over his comments. On Thursday afternoon, Kaepernick entered the conversation by sharing an Instagram Story from his girlfriend, Nessa Diab.
Nessa criticized NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for his apparent double standards. She juxtaposed Goodell’s acceptance of Butker’s right to express his opinions with his disapproval of Kaepernick’s actions, highlighting a past headline: “Goodell doesn’t agree with Kaepernick’s actions.” She further expressed her disdain for the NFL, stating, “That’s why I don’t watch that organization – and I still don’t care who performs at their halftime show.”
Kaepernick himself did not comment directly on the post but the act of sharing it suggests his endorsement of the sentiments expressed.
The juxtaposition raises questions about the consistency of the NFL’s stance on player expressions of personal beliefs.
Butker, in his speech, had controversially addressed the women in the audience, suggesting that despite potential career successes, they might find greater fulfillment in traditional roles: “I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you. Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world.”
The fallout from Butker’s remarks continues to be a topic of discussion among coaches and players, and it’s likely this won’t be the last we hear of it.
Meanwhile, Kaepernick’s response—or lack thereof—will continue to be monitored for further insights into his views on the ongoing situation with Butker and the NFL’s treatment of controversial opinions.
