Despite being theoretically blackballed by the NFL front offices, Colin Kaepernick still wishes to return to the NFL one day. Kaepernick kneeling during the National Anthem has never been forgotten by those who govern the league, and the former San Francisco 49ers QB has not had another shot.
There is one particularly high-profile team that sustained a high-profile injury at the QB position and needs additional reinforcements. Kaepernick connected with the New York Jets front office by sending them a letter of interest.
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What Did Colin Kaepernick’s Letter Say?
Kaepernick desperately wanted another shot in the NFL and took pen to paper to convey his passion, and his heartfelt dissertation reached the desk of Jets general manager Joe Douglas. Kaepernick explained to Douglas and the organization what he would bring to the table.
J. Cole has released Colin Kaepernick's letter to the Jets requesting to join their practice squad 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Kjn3af3u9G
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 26, 2023
“Worst case scenario, you see what I have to offer, and you’re not that impressed. Best case scenario, you realize you have a real weapon at your disposal in the event you ever need to use it.
“In either of these scenarios, I would be committed to getting your defense ready week in and week out, all season long, and I would wear that responsibility like a badge of honor.”
Will the Jets Sign Kaepernick?
As of now, there is no word the Jets would be interested in signing Kaepernick. In fact, the Jets signed veteran signal-caller Trevor Siemian to backup current starting QB Zach Wilson.
“Current” is a loose term, as many around the NFL expect the Jets to replace Wilson sooner rather than later.
HEY NOW:
Colin Kaepernick just sent a letter asking to join my NFL New York Jets, to help out after the Aaron Rodgers injury.Who else thinks Kaepernick deserves a chance?🖐️🏿 pic.twitter.com/Ol54o7Ynd9
— Rep. Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (@JamaalBowmanNY) September 26, 2023
Unfortunately for Wilson, he’s been put in a rough position. The Jets organization put all of their eggs into the basket of Aaron Rodgers, and the future Hall of Famer gave New York credibility as a potential Super Bowl contender.
Rodgers is likely out for the season, however, and Wilson is folding under the heat. What’s next?
Twitter has found a comment from #Jets owner Woody Johnson from 2016, saying: "Weak!" to Colin Kaepernick explaining why he protested during the National Anthem.
Doesn't help his chances to join the Jets…https://t.co/2CPgMMOIqnhttps://t.co/JesNbo1gw4 pic.twitter.com/enUO081ioL
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 26, 2023
If you’re the New York Jets, why not give Kaepernick a shot?
New York’s offense was stagnant against the Patriots, hilariously so. It needs as much juice as it can get, and perhaps Kaepernick’s ability in the zone read and as a playmaker outside the pocket could inject some life into an otherwise dormant Jets offense.
MORE: Jets Legend Joe Namath Puts Current Starting QB Zach Wilson on Blast
From all accounts, Kaepernick has burned bridges around the NFL, and as much as fans may want to see the former electric playmaker back on the football field, NFL front offices don’t see the upside in bringing in a player with significant baggage and little upside.