Kaepernick's Last Chance Rodeo

With the announcement in the week of former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick inviting all 32 teams in the NFL to an open workout to advertise his talents, will the most controversial quarterback of the 21st century be making a return? Several teams have already announced that they will be sending representatives this Saturday, with many more set to be present at perhaps Kaepernick’s last shot at reinvigorating his career. The question on everyone’s lips is are we going to get the guy who took the San Francisco 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII. Through his six-season career dating from 2011 till 2016, he has thrown for 12,271 yards accounting for 72 touchdowns and also rushing for 2,300 yards and 13 touchdowns. Marred with controversy due to his kneeling during the national anthem protest against the treatment of the black community with America, Kaepernick was ostracised by the NFL world. Due to this, Colin has been away from the game for three years. However, now is the time for Kaepernick to regain his football prowess and show that he still has the same talent he had when he started his career.

Here are what I believe are three potential landing spots for the quarterback. I do not believe at this current time with the quarterbacks that are already in place amongst many NFL teams and with the NFL Draft in 2020 being such a deep quarterback talent pool that he will get the number one job anywhere. So, Kaepernick may have to settle for a number two or even number three spot amongst rosters. Note all teams quoted I believe may have other plans for the future, but in their current situation could do with a strong number two option.

Firstly, my Pittsburgh Steelers. After, a shocking defeat to the Cleveland Browns, it is clear that Steelers number two quarterback Mason Rudolph is simply not working. Kaepernick has the arm strength to reach the speedy young receivers as well as, a strong offensive line that creates gaps for Colin to use his quick feet. Though, a different style of quarterback to the injured Ben Roethlisberger this could be a destination that makes a take a chance on Kaepernick.

Secondly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After, drafting Jameis Winston with the first pick in the 2015 NFL Draft it just hasn’t worked out at all. At 3-6 this season, Winston is not doing enough to win games and also leads the NFL in interceptions. Maybe, to seek out some much-needed wins, it could be somewhere Colin may end up. There receiving the core of Chris Godwin and Mike Evans are amongst the best talent in the league making this job a little easier if Kaepernick was to get a role.

Lastly, the Atalanta Falcons. Sure Matt Ryan is their franchise quarterback but if he gets injured where do they go next? Matt Schaub? Kaepernick would have an incredible offensive team including probably the best receiver in the NFL Julio Jones. The problem with the Atlanta offense is their running game. Injuries being predominant in their running back core, and Colin has the legs to extend plays and gain yards down the field on the ground. Something that the immobile Matt Ryan struggles at.

Situationally it would be best for Kaepernick to go into a stable franchise that isn’t distracted and concentrates solely on football. It may not be instant but if he can impress this Saturday, a job may be offered in the offseason and with so many quarterbacks being injured this year who knows what the future holds for Colin Kaepernick. I hope he can gain employment again in the NFL as I do believe he has the qualities of a winning quarterback.