Colin Kaepernick hasn’t been a member of the San Francisco 49ers since early March when he opted out, but his 49ers jersey is still selling like hot cakes.
Marshawn Lynch led all jersey sales for the month of May, which is hardly surprising. He signed with the Oakland Raiders at the end of April, and Raiders fans adore the Oakland native. However, in the same report it was fascinating to note Kaepernick showed up in the top 20 at No. 17 overall.
This is fascinating because Kaepernick is supposed to be so polarizing that NFL owners are afraid to sign the man (just ask New York Giants co-owner John Mara).
It’s also fascinating because Kaepernick has barely generated a whisper of real interest in NFL circles since opting out. The closest he’s gotten to landing a gig was a meeting in Seattle with the Seahawks. But Pete Carroll — a coach who prides himself on creating a culture of competition — wouldn’t sign Kaepernick because “he’s a starter in this league” and the Seahawks already have one.
In what world does that make any sense at all?
Regardless of what the NFL’s decision makers think of Kaepernick, it’s clear he still has tremendous support from the general public. Though many harbor feelings of resentment and bitterness towards the former 49ers quarterback for his anthem protest, it’s clear he still has plenty of support around the nation.