Netflix is preparing to release a groundbreaking new documentary that promises to spark important conversations about race, sports, and the legacy of discrimination in professional football. Titled “Kenny Washington 1946”, the film delves into the story of the man who broke the color barrier in the National Football League, and how systemic racism has long impacted the league’s image and policies.
The documentary focuses on Kenny Washington, a name that deserves to be mentioned alongside Jackie Robinson in any discussion of racial pioneers in American sports. In 1946, Washington made history by becoming the first Black player to sign an NFL contract in the modern era when he joined the Los Angeles Rams. At a time when segregation was still deeply rooted in American society—including in professional sports—Washington’s presence on the field represented a monumental shift. Yet, unlike Robinson in Major League Baseball, Washington’s story has remained largely overlooked in mainstream history.
Netflix’s documentary not only highlights Kenny Washington’s groundbreaking achievement but also explores the broader context of racial exclusion in the NFL. Prior to Washington’s entry into the league, Black players had been unofficially banned from the NFL since the early 1930s. The film takes a deep dive into that dark chapter of the league’s history and the struggles Black athletes faced in their fight for inclusion and equality.
Through a blend of historical footage, expert commentary, and personal accounts, “Kenny Washington 1946” reveals how deeply embedded racism was in the NFL’s early structure—and how its effects still echo today. The documentary also confronts how the league has often struggled with its public image concerning racial justice, from its lack of Black coaches and executives to the controversies surrounding player protests in recent years.
By bringing Kenny Washington’s courageous journey to the forefront, the film aims to educate viewers about the sacrifices made by those who came before and to honor a legacy that deserves far more recognition. Washington’s trailblazing debut wasn’t just a moment of personal victory; it was a pivotal step toward change in a sport—and a country—resistant to integration.
Netflix hopes the documentary will serve not only as a tribute to a forgotten hero but also as a catalyst for reflection on how far the NFL has come and how much further it still has to go when it comes to racial equity and justice.
Kenny Washington 1946 is scheduled to premiere soon, and it’s already generating strong anticipation among sports fans, historians, and advocates of social justice.