NFL got it right
Re: NFL full of hot air on Kaepernick. Scott Stinson, Sept. 2
While columnist Scott Stinson is largely correct regarding Mr. Kaepernick’s apparent ostracism from the NFL, the deception isn’t surprising. Frankly, I don’t blame the NFL. The league is tactfully removing someone seen as a gadfly and extinguishing the controversy generated with the l east fuss. The NFL, like any large organization, tries to maintain a pristine public image. While Mr. Kaepernick is entitled to his opinions, the manner in which his concern was expressed and the fact NFL telecasts were used made the league an unwilling participant in a contretemps that offended any fans (more than the “make America great” faction Mr. Stinson refers to) and likely troubled the sponsors. The tactic also sends a message about what happens should other players attempt similar future actions. My previous employer ( I’m retired now) had strict rules about using company time, equipment, stationary, etc. for personal business; one reason being that the organization would not be seen as condoning my viewpoints. Why should the NFL be any different?
In assessing Mr. Kaepernick’s football abilities, Mr. Stinson cherry picked facts to present the best possible light. For instance, Mr. Kaepernicks superb 2016 interception ratio was offset by the 33 sacks and 9 fumbles he incurred in the 11 games he played in. Mr. Kapernick’s lifetime QB rating was influenced by the fact the 49ers were a strong, well- coached, successful team when he entered the league. Had he started with a weak team, as some of the quarterbacks mentioned did, I’m sure his rating would not be so high. His actions last season were an obvious distraction to the 49ers team and organization and probably played a factor in their record last year. Hardly what you expect from someone who should have been one of the leaders of the team. Small wonder teams are reticent to acquire his services.
Lastly, Mr. Kaepernick must have known that his crusade might harm his career but he proceeded anyway. In doing so, he accepted whatever consequences that might arise. If you want to dance, you have to pay the fiddler!