Takeo Spikes was a high-level NFL player before retiring from the league in 2012, and while a pro scout he is not, one would think that at the very least he can evaluate talent on the offensive side of the ball — if only because he tried to stop that talent for 15 great seasons.
So for what it's worth, Spikes has thrown his name into the hat of hot takes on former San Francisco 49ers quarterback and current free agent Colin Kaepernick. Also for what it's worth, Spikes seems to be incredulous about the fact that the social lightning rod of a quarterback has yet to be picked up by an NFL team.
Here's what he had to say on SiriusXM NFL Radio:
The Kaepernick takes are endless — whether it be for or against — and frankly every day we get closer to the Fall is another day closer to when we can start talking about actual football instead of offseason controversy. With that said, Spikes is talking about Kaepernick in actual football terms, looking past his protest of the national anthem and instead evaluating Kaep as a quarterback — which is almost impossible to do considering the social and political implications that now come along with signing the former 49er.
Basing an argument around whether or not Kaepernick would help a team is simplistic, but ultimately, the NFL is about wins and losses. Looking at Kaepernick in that light, it would make sense to bring him on as a quarterback, if only as a backup who can provide valuable experience to a young, or perhaps an inexperienced starter.
Has his play deteriorated over the past few seasons? Absolutely. But can he still win a game or two in this league if asked to strap up his helmet and get under center?
Unfortunately for his detractors, that answer is still yes. Absolutely.
From a pure football standpoint, Kaepernick as a backup quarterback is smart. If for some reason your starter goes down or doesn't perform, here's a quarterback with six years of NFL experience — including a big-time run to the Super Bowl. And sure, his play isn't up to par with that Super Bowl season anymore, but he's still a well above average athlete who will make defenses think twice about collapsing the pocket and losing contain on the edge.
Purely speaking of X's and O's, it makes sense. Perhaps that's why a former player like Spikes can't believe Kaepernick isn't yet on a roster.
(H/T All22)
