Over six years have passed since Colin Kaepernick last graced an NFL field, but the quarterback's dedication to staying game-ready remains unwavering. Kaepernick revealed to Sports Illustrated that he maintains a demanding training regimen of five to six days a week, though he hadn't scheduled any team workouts as of early June.

Colin Kaepernick at the Toronto Raptors vs. Boston Celtics game at Scotiabank Arena on December 5, 2022, in Toronto. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)

"My commitment remains steadfast," Kaepernick shared with SI. "I'll persist in this pursuit because I'm confident in my ability to perform at a high level. The consistent feedback I've received affirms this, ranging from affirmations of my elite status to positive assessments of my workouts, often exceeding expectations."

Kaepernick recounted his experience with the Raiders' workout last year, emphasizing how it served as a reminder of his on-field capabilities. He expressed his eagerness for any opportunity to showcase his skills and reaffirm his readiness for a return to professional football.

Kaepernick's last NFL appearance was in 2016, the season he initiated his kneeling protests during the national anthem to raise awareness about racial injustice in the U.S. The Las Vegas Raiders extended a workout invitation to Kaepernick in May 2022, where he reportedly made a strong impression. However, the team opted to retain Jarrett Stidham as Derek Carr's backup.

Colin Kaepernick during a throwing exhibition at halftime of the Michigan spring football game at Michigan Stadium on April 2, 2022, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Jaime Crawford/Getty Images)

Reflecting on the Raiders' decision, Kaepernick acknowledged the prevalence of justifications he's encountered over the years. He pointed to the Raiders' existing quarterback situation with Stidham and Nick Mullens, suggesting that their resumes and skillsets, combined with his workout performance and positive feedback, should have warranted further consideration. He expressed his desire to be evaluated solely on his on-field merits, free from political biases.

Beyond the gridiron, Kaepernick has remained actively engaged, establishing Kaepernick Publishing and featuring in the Netflix series "Colin in Black and White," which drew parallels between the NFL Combine and a slave auction.

Colin Kaepernick during a throwing exhibition at halftime of the Michigan spring football game at Michigan Stadium on April 2, 2022, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Jaime Crawford/Getty Images)

In a recent NPR interview, Kaepernick expressed his view that the NFL hasn't demonstrated substantial change since his last game in January 2017. He believes there's significant work to be done and considers his six-year absence from the league a reflection of its current state. He stopped short of attributing goodwill and positive intentions to the NFL's operations.