Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has formally reached out to the New York Jets, expressing his desire to join the team's practice squad. Kaepernick's letter to the team's general manager comes in the wake of an unfortunate injury to the Jets' starting quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon just four plays into the opening game of the season.
In the letter, which Kaepernick shared on Instagram, he stated, "I would be honored and extremely grateful for the opportunity to come in and lead the practice squad." Kaepernick emphasized his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition and offered himself as a "risk-free contingency plan" for the Jets.
Notably, Kaepernick, who is 34 years old, generated controversy for his peaceful protest against racial injustices and police brutality in the United States by kneeling during the national anthem. He has been absent from NFL games for over six years.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the team has responded to Kaepernick's request. In the meantime, the Jets have announced the signing of another quarterback, Trevor Siemian, to their practice squad. Siemian had previously played with the Jets in 2019.
In his letter addressed to Jets' General Manager Joe Douglas, the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback expressed his willingness to lead the practice squad. He acknowledged the team's aspiration to win a championship this season and the challenges posed by the loss of Aaron Rodgers to injury.
Kaepernick wrote, "As of right now, Zach Wilson is charged with that task, and I wish him and the rest of the team the best moving forward. However, I know that there are currently depth issues at the position, and 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."
Kaepernick proposed that he could lead the practice squad to help the team's defense prepare effectively for upcoming games against mobile and versatile quarterbacks, such as Patrick Mahomes, Russell Wilson, and Jalen Hurts, scheduled for weeks 4, 5, and 6. This would also provide the team with a chance to assess Kaepernick's football skills after his extended absence.
He assured the Jets that he has continued to train diligently since his absence from the NFL, working out every weekday. Kaepernick attached a list of references, including notable figures like Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, and UCLA head coach Chip Kelly, to vouch for his dedication and ability.
Speculation regarding Kaepernick's availability and interest has circulated for several weeks, particularly following the unfortunate injury to Aaron Rodgers. The injury has cast doubt on the Jets' chances of competing for a championship, as they currently hold the longest active playoff drought in the league, spanning 12 seasons.
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