Colin Kaepernick's Strategic Decisions: Why He Chose to Complete College
Introduction
When Colin Kaepernick chose to complete his college education at the University of Nevada Reno (UNR) instead of entering the NFL draft after his promising college career, his decision was not without careful consideration. This article explores the reasons behind his strategic move and why he opted for a tertiary education beyond his football prospects.
Why Did Kaepernick Choose to Complete College?
Over time and with the perspective of hindsight, Colin Kaepernick is now recognized as a multi-talented athlete, excelling not only in football but also in baseball and basketball during his time at UNR. However, at the point he made his decision to forgo the draft and complete his education, he was not considered an early draft prospect by scouts and the NFL. A local newspaper from his hometown, the Turlock Journal, reported that Kaepernick became a serious prospect only after NFL scouts realized his potential in a pro-style offense, particularly after years of being the centerpiece of Nevada's Pistol offense.
The Journey to the NFL
Post-UNR, Kaepernick took his agent to San Francisco and neatly wrapped up his university affairs in a hotel room. Soon after, he boarded a plane straight to Atlanta to begin his training for the Senior Bowl in Alabama. This sequence of events signifies a rapid and focused transition from academia to professional sports, driven by his evident talent and potential. However, this journey was not without uncertainty, and it's valuable to understand the reasoning behind his decision to complete his college education first.
A Backup Plan
The football career of an NFL player is notoriously short, ranging between 3 to 6 years on average. In the broader context of an athlete's career span, finishing college provides a crucial backup plan. Kaepernick clearly understood the fragility of his football career and the benefits of having an alternative path. According to some sources, he completed college so that he had a solid backup plan in case his professional football career did not pan out as expected. This decision was made after careful assessment of his marketability in sports and his academic achievements.
A Rounded Athlete
Beyond football, Kaepernick demonstrated exceptional skill in baseball and basketball during college, indicating that he was a versatile athlete. By opting to complete his degree, he ensured that he had a diversified skill set and a solid academic foundation to fall back on, should his football career falter. This multifaceted approach aligns with the broader trend among athletes of different calibers, who recognize the value of having a range of options and a plan B.
Conclusion
In summary, Colin Kaepernick chose to complete his college education at UNR to have a backup plan for his career. This decision was driven by his understanding of the NFL's athletic career lifespan, his multiple talents, and his desire to ensure future financial and personal security. His approach serves as a reminder to aspiring athletes and young professionals alike about the importance of diverse skill sets and a strategic, multi-faceted career approach.
Keywords: Colin Kaepernick, NFL Draft, College Education, Athlete Career Backup