KEY POINTS

  • Kaepernick is still pursuing a deal with the Jets
  • Kaepernick is far from giving up NFL career
  • Kaepernick is in shape despite last playing in 2016

Colin Kaepernick has not been in the NFL headlines until recently. No thanks to a bogus Twitter account the NFL world got rocked when word got out that the 32-year-old quarterback was inked to a one-year contract worth $9 million with the New York Jets. It was branded as fake news but somehow revived the name of the 36th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft.

The last time Kaepernick was on the football field was way back in 2016. He was still with the San Francisco 49ers at the time but most knew he would be getting the boot. That came when Kyle Shanahan took over, believing the player would not fit his system. He has since been linked to several teams but nothing came to fruition.

Despite the tweet now branded as fake news, it turns out that Kaepernick is indeed trying to land a spot on the Jets lineup. TMZ Sports reported that the 32-year-old quarterback is keeping his fingers crossed that he could be considered for inclusion. New York has not shown any indication of being mutually-interested although they could use some quarterbacking boost. Sam Darnold lacks support in the quarterbacking position and Kaepernick could be of use.

Though he has been out of NFL action, Kaepernick has not lost the faith. He continues to find ways to stay fit - hoping some teams give him a chance to play pro football once more. Kaepernick was scheduled to work out for some teams last year but a dispute with the league prevented that from pushing through. He held his own workout but his efforts hardly convinced anyone to give him a chance, the Bleacher Report reported.

Kaepernick's name ironically pops up at a time when most NFL teams are figuring out their quarterbacking needs. Several teams need a quarterback next season and there are notable names available. This includes Cam Newton and Jameis Winston.

Any moves by NFL teams are likely to be held off for now. There is the 2020 NFL Draft to consider as well as the ongoing struggles against the COVID-19 pandemic. Like other athletes, Kaepernick will just have to wait.

Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick's kneeling protest of racial injustice became a US controversy
Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick's kneeling protest of racial injustice became a US controversy GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Carmen Mandato