Why Nike's 30th Anniversary Ad Featuring Colin Kaepernick Is a Worthwhile Risk

On Labor Day, it debuted a spot with the former NFL player

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

While those lucky enough to be off on Labor Day across the country sat in airport terminals, in traffic or waited on train platforms, Nike quietly dropped one of its biggest ads of the year—or perhaps, of the past 30 years.

Said ad stars Colin Kaepernick, the NFL quarterback and former San Francisco 49er, and it’s part of a milestone campaign for the brand to mark the 30th anniversary of Nike’s iconic “Just Do It” slogan. The campaign also features ads starring Odell Beckham Jr.,

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in