The anticipation surrounding Aaron Rodgers? successor was quick to follow after his unfortunate season-ending Achilles injury. Two names were being circulated more frequently than others- Colin Kaepernick, former 49ers quarterback who has been a free agent since after the 2016 NFL season, and 7x SB winner Tom Brady. Kaepernick, however, had his agent reach out to the Jets to inquire about a possible NFL reentry, while the latter seems to be sticking by his second retirement announcement.?

However, in a recent interview on Fearless with Jason Whitlock, one of the most defensive tackles in NFL history declares a sad end to Kaepernick?s aspirations. The Jets have also revealed the name of their favored starting quarterback, who will likely lead the team against the Dallas Cowboys at the AT&T Stadium on Sunday.?

Warren Sapp’s perspective on Kaepernick’s return

Earlier this week, NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that the 35-year-old free agent had sent him a message saying, ?I just need a shot,? referring to his desire to replace Rodgers as Jets? starting quarterback for the rest of the season. However, Warren Sapp in conversation with sports columnist Jason Whitlock dismissed the idea saying, “We saw you play. It’s over, so let it go.”?

Referring to Kaepernick?s agent reaching out to the Jets, he continued, “When I was a free agent, Al Davis picked up the phone to call Rosenhaus,…That?s what happens when someone thinks you can play in this league, they call your representative.”?

Colin Kaepernick infamously kneeled during the national anthem as a demonstration of protest against racism and police brutality in 2016. He has remained without an NFL contract for over six years, yet maintains confidence in his ability to potentially step into Rodgers’ shoes. He stated, “I’m still training vigorously, five or six days a week, getting up at 4:30 AM. That passion is alive, and my skill set remains intact,” during an interview with CBS News. But this has failed to convince Sapp. The Jets, however, have their reasons.

The Jets wish to play someone familiar with Nathaniel Hackett’s system

Tom Brady seeks to venture into his post-retirement phase marked by indulging in corporate partnerships, and an ownership stake in Birmingham City, and is poised to embark on a broadcasting role with Fox scheduled to commence in 2024. This rules him out as a possible contender for acquiring Rodgers’ spot.?

Jets GM Joe Douglas expressed their desire to incorporate someone who is familiar with the offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett?s system. Additionally, whoever the team recruits as a quarterback will do so with the understanding that Zach Wilson retains his position as the starter. At 24 years old, Wilson led the Jets to a 22-16 overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills after Rodgers sustained his injury in the first quarter of the Monday night game.

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The Jets haven’t brought a Super Bowl home in over 54 years. However, as they prepare to travel to the Lone Star State’s Cowboys for the next matchup at AT&T Stadium, the NFL fans can only hope that the team armed with their new arsenal can put up an invincible fight, as they did with the Bills.

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