Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick remains unsigned with the NFL season just two weeks away.
Throughout the offseason, several NFL franchises in dire need of backup quarterbacks have passed on the polarizing Kaepernick in favor of others.
On Wednesday, ESPN's Mike Sando released an article featuring numerous anonymous NFL executives and coaches giving their opinions on the outspoken quarterback.
"As far as his prospects as a backup, I don't think he is being blackballed in terms of rich white owners saying, 'We are not hiring this guy,'" said one defensive coordinator. "I think coaches are like, 'Look, if this kid is not starting for us, why are you bringing in distractions not for a starter? We have a pretty good sort of locker room and mesh here. What is the risk-reward?' I don't think anyone is to the point of making him the starter, and that is the bubble he is getting caught in."
Similarly, this is what derailed Tim Tebow's NFL career after he was released by the Denver Broncos following the team's acquisition of Peyton Manning in 2012. While Tebow didn't purposely cause a distraction himself, his media presence as a backup became too much for NFL teams to handle.
The same can be said for Kaepernick whose exclusion this offseason has been a constant topic of discussion. Although he is arguably deserving of at least being a No. 2 option ahead of many currently signed QBs, his polarizing presence would indeed demand media attention at all times.
There are also executives concerned about his natural abilities and how he fits into modern NFL systems.
"I like the arm strength and I like the athleticism, but the worst thing that happened with him was when people tried to make him a pocket passer," said one personnel director. "He is much better when he can waggle or boot and do some of those things."
All things considered, some NFL coaches do believe that Kaepernick will be back in the league eventually, although they may not know when that will be.
"I do not think he is done," claimed one head coach. "I think he can still play. He is awkward. People want a certain look."
