​Colin Kaepernick may be the single most polarizing figure in sports. Ever since he decided to kneel for the National Anthem to protest social injustice in America, football fans and the country at large have been firmly divided on the issue. The immense backlash ended up being so great that Kaepernick became effectively blacklisted from the NFL.


But now, Nike is using ​Kaepernick as the newest face of their "Just Do It" campaign as the iconic tagline celebrates its 30th anniversary. 

The QB hasn't played in a NFL game since 2016. In the 12 games he played that season, ​Kaepernick threw for 2,241 yards, 16 touchdowns and just ​​four interceptions, all equating to a 90.7 passer rating. Nike referenced the situation surrounding his sudden exile, implying that it came down to what he believed in that cost him his NFL career, not his play not he field.


This campaign has reignited the debate, and put a spotlight on the divide that still remains.

This is also a rather interesting move by Nike, as they have a contract with the ​NFL to be their official uniform and apparel supplier through 2028. Earlier this offseason, the league released a policy that would fine players for kneeling during the National Anthem. While the policy has since been temporarily halted, the NFL has made their feelings about kneeling for the anthem clear, so they must not be happy with Nike's use of Kaepernick to lead their ad campaign.


Brace yourselves, America. This is going to be an absolute firestorm.