For the record, Kaepernick was going to be cut if he didn't opt out. He knew it, and the 49ers have admitted as much.

That said, I don't care that he isn't on a team, and I don't think it's the NFL's duty to make sure he is. He made a choice, which he is free to do, and I have no issue with his choice. But you have to deal with the consequences. He took a stand he seemed willing to pay the price for, and it did cost him.