SAN FRANCISCO—Colin Kaepernick’s career in the NFL is in serious jeopardy after the Seatlle Seahawks, a roster full of fiery players and a coach who encourages his players to be vocal and supports freedom of speech has opted not to sign 29 year-old quarterback. Instead, the Seahawks signed Austin Davis to backup starting Quarterback Russell Wilson.
As NFL franchises begin OTA’s and training camp, the Seahawks seemed to be his final option. His NFL journey which began with such great promise has turned into a Greek tragedy. He was destined to become the next great 49ers Quarterback in the mold of Montana and Young. The past three seasons Kaepernick has regressed, and of course, he drew outrage across the globe when he refused to stand for our National Anthem, electing to kneel instead.
The 49ers were simply horrible last year, going 2-14. Kaepernick threw 16 touchdowns and four interceptions and a 90.7 passer rating on a dreadful 49ers team. He also had just 2,241 passing yards. Although his mobility and elusive speed is still intact, he never matured into a pocket passer. In addition, his former coach Jim Harbaugh left for Ann Arbor to lead the Michigan Wolverines, while Running Back Frank Gore and a stout defense evaporated.
This off-season, an abundance of decent quarterbacks have found a new home, where they will be standing dutifully on the sidelines with a clipboard and headset. Which begs the question: why hasnt Kaepernick been picked up? First, since Kaepernick is a mobile quarterback teams would need to build around him. Every draft pick, and free agent would have to fit a system designed to win. He still shows flashes of brilliance at times, dazzling skill sets, however, NFL franchises never build around a backup.
He is only 3 years removed from helping the 49ers reach the Super Bowl, than the NFC Championship. Although it feels like a lifetime ago, compound that with the media circus which will follow him to his next spot. That is likely to scare potential suitors from signing him.
Carroll was suportive after Kaepernick visited the organization last week.
“[Kaepernick’s] a starter. And we have a starter. … But he’s a starter in this league, and I can’t imagine somebody won’t give him a chance to play,” said Carroll.
Rumors floated the QB was demanding a hefty salary, an accusation his supporters vehemently deny. They firmly believe Kaepernick is a victim in danger of losing his livelihood akin to the saga of former baseball player, Curt Flood, Davis has 13 career touchdowns, and has spent time with the Rams and Denver Broncos.
Perhaps this is a coup, with Kaepernick gaining sympathy from the public. The story is absolutely tailor made for these divisive times. The quarterback is an intellegent man, its not hard to imagine him parlaying his tale into a lurid tell all book,which is common place now. Perhaps Russell Wilson didnt want his former arch nemesis breathing down his neck.
There is no doubt that Colin Kaepernick is a far better football player than Austin Davis. Even Mrs. Austin would admit the fact in private.
Mark Sanchez, Brock Osweiller, Mike Glennon have landed,15 to be exact. Kaepernick is still patiently waiting. For all the Kaepernick supporters, dont throw in the towel just yet. All it takes is one devastating injury during training camp, and boom- Kaepernick is back in the league. Hopefully, he left his arm in San Francisco!
