Colin Kaepernick is probably on a mission to lead an NFL team to a Super Bowl victory this season, as he is actively seeking the opportunity to join a team. The New York Jets, who haven’t won a Super Bowl since 1969, had high hopes for the season when Aaron Rodgers joined the team. Both coach Robert Saleh and GM Joe Douglas, along with fans, were optimistic about their playoff prospects.
However, their expectations were dashed when Rodgers was sidelined for the season due to an injury. As a result, Zach Wilson has stepped in as the team’s backup quarterback. Furthermore, with a shortage of quarterbacks, the Jets are exploring other options, and Kaepernick is eager to seize this opportunity.
Colin Kaepernick reached out to the Jets’ GM?
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Colin Kaepernick is attempting a comeback this season after last playing in 2016. The 35-year-old has reached out to Jets GM Joe Douglas with a request letter in which he stated, “I’ve heard that the back-up spot is likely to be filled by a veteran Quarterback. As much as I would love the opportunity to fill that spot, I’m writing you in hopes that you can imagine a much different approach involving me. I would be honored and extremely grateful for the opportunity to come in and lead the practice squad. I would do this with the sole mission of getting your defense ready each week.” Additionally, he also expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team to a Lombardi Trophy, stepping in for the injured legend Aaron Rodgers.
Kaepernick played six bright seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, during which he had one Super Bowl appearance in 2013. Kaep’s NFL career derailed when he took a stand for the black community and knelt during the national anthem as part of the protest. Now, after seven years, Kaepernick is eager for a comeback, as he stated in a previous interview this year that he wants to return to win multiple championships. His desire to win and prove his worth prompted him to write a direct letter requesting Douglas to give him a chance.
It is safe to say that A-Rod is a quarterback of a level that is rarely matched. So can Kaepernick be compared with the ‘gray-bearded man’? Can Colin Kaepernick fill the Jets’ quarterback position left vacant by Rodgers? Considering several factors, it seems that Kaep should at least be given a fair chance to prove his worth this time.
Why should Colin Kaepernick be given a chance in the NFL?
Analyzing the performances of the two legends, it’s undeniable that both quarterbacks have proven their worth in the NFL. On one hand, Rodgers has played 19 seasons in total, won one Super Bowl, and threw for 59,055 yards, and 475 touchdowns. On the other hand, Kaepernick has played six seasons, with one Super Bowl appearance, throwing for 12,271 yards and 72 touchdowns. This record straight away clears that A-Rod is one of the most experienced and best quarterbacks in the NFL and also holds the record for the most rushing yards by a QB in a season.
It should also be noted that going by the records, Colin Kaepernick, if he plays today, will surely be one of the best QBs the Jets can have, alongside Rodgers. Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Aaron Rodgers has been rumored to be replaced by Colin Kaepernick. In 2017, during A-Rod’s Packers era, there were rumors of Kaepernick coming back to replace Rodgers when he got injured with a broken collarbone. This time again, a similar situation is repeated with the two legends. Although Kaep wants to return, two lingering situations may concern NFL teams about selecting him.
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Firstly, given his long seven-year gap since the kneeling episode, he hasn’t played with any NFL team. Following this extended hiatus, will he be able to perform the way he did during his era? Secondly, there’s the concern as to how a divided fan base will perceive the returning civil rights activist. However, Kaepernick has addressed these concerns himself. During the seven years of his absence from the NFL, he hasn’t left the game in entirety. In previous interviews and endorsements, he revealed that he has been working on his arm strength and has been training, despite being away from the NFL. Furthermore, he is showing his dedication and strong interest in making a comeback.
In short, Kaepernick possesses all the attributes that a QB should have. While Aaron Rodgers is undoubtedly a legendary player who is rarely replaceable, Kaepernick cannot be sidelined from the conversation, given his impressive stats, on-field presence, and loyal fan base. What do you think? Comment down below.
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Editorial Disclaimer: “The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of EssentiallySports”
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