Is Colin Kaepernick still making money despite being out of the NFL? His financial journey has been just as controversial as his career.
From a record-breaking contract with the San Francisco 49ers to endorsement deals that kept him in the public eye, Kaepernick has managed to stay financially relevant. But how much is he worth today? Let’s take a closer look at Colin Kaepernick net worth, his earnings, salary, and financial decisions.
Colin Kaepernick Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Colin Rand Kaepernick |
| Popular Name | Colin Kaepernick |
| Birth Date | November 3, 1987 |
| Age (as of 02/27/2025) | 37 years old |
| Birthplace | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Ghanaian, Nigerian, Ivorian, White American) |
| Education | University of Nevada, Reno,John H. Pitman High School |
| Marital Status | Dating |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | Nessa Diab |
| Siblings | Kyle Kaepernick, Devon Kaepernick |
| Parents | Teresa Kaepernick, Rick Kaepernick |
| Height | 1.93 meters |
| Net Worth | $20 million |
| Source of Wealth | American football, endorsements, activism, publishing |
What is the Net Worth of Colin Kaepernick in 2025?
Colin Kaepernick’s net worth is estimated at $20 million. His earnings primarily come from his time in the NFL, endorsement deals, and legal settlements.
While this figure is significant, it falls short of the wealth accumulated by many NFL stars. For comparison, quarterbacks like Cam Newton and Russell Wilson have amassed much higher fortunes.
However, Kaepernick’s continued brand presence and advocacy work ensure he remains financially relevant.
Related People and Companies:
- Nike
- San Francisco 49ers
- Cam Newton
- Russell Wilson
- Eric Reid
- Pete Carroll
- Chip Kelly
- Geno Smith
- Know Your Rights Camp
- Audible
For more insights into the wealthiest celebrities, check out this list of top earners.
Colin Kaepernick Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Has He Earned from His NFL Career?
During his six seasons in the NFL, Kaepernick earned over $43 million in salary alone. His highest-paid season was 2016, when he made $14.3 million.
However, after opting out of his contract in 2017, he never played another NFL game. His departure from the league sparked debates about whether political factors influenced his career’s abrupt halt.
His Biggest Contracts and Salary Details
In 2014, Kaepernick signed a seven-year, $126 million extension with the 49ers. The contract included $61 million in potential guarantees, but only $13 million was fully guaranteed.
Performance-based clauses significantly reduced his actual earnings. By the time he left the league, he had earned around $39 million from that deal, far less than its full potential.
The Role of Endorsements in His Financial Status
Despite his NFL exit, Kaepernick remained a marketable figure. His partnership with Nike became a defining aspect of his post-football career. In 2018, Nike featured him in its “Just Do It” campaign, sparking both praise and controversy.
Reports suggest that his Nike contract pays him millions annually, with additional earnings from apparel sales. Other endorsements have included Beats by Dre and various publishing ventures.
His Lawsuit Against the NFL and Settlement Details
In 2017, Kaepernick filed a grievance against the NFL, alleging collusion to keep him out of the league. The case was settled privately in 2019. Initial reports suggested the settlement could be worth up to $80 million, but later estimates placed it closer to $10 million. While this sum added to his wealth, it was far below what he might have earned had he continued playing.
How He Invests and Manages His Wealth
Kaepernick has diversified his income beyond football. He founded Know Your Rights Camp, a nonprofit focused on empowering marginalized youth.
Additionally, he launched Kaepernick Publishing and has worked on projects like the Netflix series Colin in Black & White.
He has also invested in real estate. In 2017, he sold his San Jose home for $3.075 million. His luxury condo in New York City, purchased for $3.21 million in 2016, was listed for sale in April 2024.
Could He Return to the NFL and Boost His Earnings?
Over the years, Kaepernick has expressed interest in returning to the NFL. He had a workout with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022 but remains unsigned. If he were to return, his earnings could increase significantly.
However, given the league’s reluctance to sign him, a comeback seems unlikely. Instead, his financial future likely depends on his activism, endorsements, and business ventures.
Conclusion
Colin Kaepernick’s financial journey has been shaped by both his football career and activism. While his earnings don’t match top-tier NFL quarterbacks, he has secured financial stability through endorsements and smart investments. Want to read more about celebrity finances? Visit Aupeo for the latest insights!
