What Should the NFL Do About Colin Kaepernick? A Decision-Making Case Study

Abstract

As an intercollegiate and NFL football player, Colin Kaepernick has achieved a level of distinction that few have accomplished. Yet, despite his many accolades, Kaepernick was not signed to an NFL franchise for the entirety of the 2017–2018 NFL season. Many point to the controversial activities he engaged in during the 2016–2017 NFL season as the reason why this was the case. During this season, Kaepernick gained notoriety when he infamously refused to stand during the playing of the national anthem before NFL games. This case study requires students to take on a fictional consulting role with an NFL team that is considering whether to sign Kaepernick to a future NFL contract.

This case was prepared for inclusion in Sage Business Cases primarily as a basis for classroom discussion or self-study, and is not meant to illustrate either effective or ineffective management styles. Nothing herein shall be deemed to be an endorsement of any kind. This case is for scholarly, educational, or personal use only within your university, and cannot be forwarded outside the university or used for other commercial purposes.

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