By the time Kaepernick began his anthem protest in 2016, his relationship with the 49ers had evolved from the original draft dynamics in 2011. He ultimately left the NFL, with the behind-the-scenes strains from his 49ers tenure largely staying private, especially the friction with former general manager Trent Baalke.
A decade after his protest began, Kaepernick spoke with longtime Bay Area columnist Scott Ostler in a candid interview. When Ostler asked about any lingering issues with Baalke, Kaepernick revealed that matters started even before the 2011 NFL draft when he entered the conversation.
“I don’t think Trent was a fan of mine before I walked in the door. Part of it stemmed from a power struggle, or a sense of toes being stepped on,” he said. “I know Trent didn’t agree with me playing over Alex. After the 2013 season, I discussed improvements with Harbaugh, talked about going to the combine with him to evaluate receivers together, and explore every avenue to break through and win a championship.”
“Harbaugh supported those ideas,” he continued. “Then I got a call from Trent. He told me not to go to the combine with Harbaugh and to tell him we hadn’t discussed any of this. That kind of thing encapsulated how he operated. I’d describe it as manipulative tactics, not beneficial for anyone. I know other players had issues with Baalke as well. I don’t view him as a good person.”
During the 2011 NFL Draft, San Francisco moved from No. 45 to No. 36 to select Kaepernick, a move that brought new energy to the Harbaugh era. Baalke, however, spoke positively about Kaepernick prior to his rookie season, noting the quarterback’s ability to adjust and learn quickly.
When Kaepernick was drafted, Alex Smith was still expected to be the starter. Harbaugh publicly supported Smith’s return, and Smith even organized informal offseason practices during the lockout. Kaepernick acknowledged Smith’s extensive NFL experience.
Kaepernick eventually took over after Smith suffered a concussion in 2012. Initially seen as a temporary move, Kaepernick’s performance soon earned him a starting role. He led the 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII and followed with another NFC Championship appearance a year later.
His on-field success earned him a six-year contract extension ahead of the 2014 season, potentially worth up to $126 million, with substantial guarantees. In the 2015 season, after a late-season collapse, Kaepernick lost his starting job to backup Blaine Gabbert. He missed the rest of the year due to a shoulder injury, and his protest against police violence by kneeling during the national anthem became a focal point. Ultimately, he not only lost his job with the 49ers but also his position in the NFL. In a recent discussion, Kaepernick said the move cost him financially—he estimated losing more than $150 million.
“I’m often asked if I would do it again, and the answer is yes,” he stated about the protest. “The impact it had, and the trajectory it created for me, organizations, and others in communities to do more, is enormously significant.”
Kaepernick acknowledged the financial and professional costs but emphasized the broader societal impact. He described the decision as costly, not only in terms of his football career spanning more than two decades but also financially. He believes the actions helped catalyze broader conversations about justice and opportunities for others, recognizing that the outcomes extended beyond his own playing career.
As the anniversary of his peaceful protest arrives, Kaepernick remains an active civil rights advocate, continuing efforts to advance social justice and civic engagement.
